Is your pup prepared for the 4th? Check out our full list of 4th of July dog safety tips! Plus, extra training tips to keep your dog calm. Read it now!

Name me a greater duo, I'll wait... (sorry Canadian readers 🇨🇦)

4th of July dog safety tips are likely some of the most important life-saving tips you'll read about all year.

PS- Many of these tips are great for any holiday, especially ones that include fireworks or other potentially startling experiences for dogs.

Unfortunately, the 4th of July is one of the most dangerous days of the year for our furry friends.

Statistics show there is an increase of anywhere from 30-60% of the number of lost dogs between the days of July 4-6.

So, I'll help you plan your day right and keep your dog safe this 4th of July.

Here are the main 4th of July dog safety tips we'll cover.

Use dog-friendly sunscreen and insect repellant

The key to a successful 4th of July with your dog is to be prepared well in advance.

If you're reading this on 4th of July, don't sweat... you can still implement some of these ideas today.

One of the best ways to prepare your pup for the sights, smells, and sounds of 4th of July is proper training.

Part of why the 4th of July is scary for dogs has to do with fireworks.

Fireworks are loud. The noise can often exceed 150 decibels. For reference, a jackhammer emits about 100 decibels.

So, let's talk about how to get your dog used to the sound of fireworks.

Again, this is best if you can start weeks beforehand, but some training is better than none!

Start by finding fireworks noises on your phone and connect to a speaker.

With the volume very low, play the firework noise.

As your pup hears the noise, ask for a "look at me" or even a sit, lay down, or stay. Just something to get their focus.

When your pup makes eye contact, reward with treats.

PS- You'll want to use extremely high-value treats for these sessions.

Repeat the steps all while slowly increasing the noise level of the firework noise with each successful attempt.

Give your dog sufficient positive reinforcers with each successful calm reaction to the firework noise.

Although this process takes time, it can pay huge dividends in the long run.

You can even practice having a "steady stream" of firework noises while you give your pup a yummy chew, or filled kong.

The key is to make the firework noise have a positive association.

On the actual day of the 4th, make sure you have a plan to set your pup up for success.

Wake up earlier than normal and take your pup on a long hike, run, fetch session or any other type of physical exercise.

The more you can do to tire your pup out during the day, the better!

Especially because once the sun sets, you'll want your pup to be inside.

Keeping your pup safe on the 4th of July takes some planning, practice, and of course, love on your part.

Let's dive into the details of each safety tip!

Like I mentioned above, many dogs are lost between July 4-6.

So, to be extra safe with your pup, make sure they are properly identified. That can include the following:

Out of all solutions, microchipping is the most reliable. It won't ever fall off...

Plus, it provides a surefire way for someone to contact you in case they find your pup.

If you haven't microchipped your dog, consider talking to your vet. The benefit greatly outweighs any cost.

Oh, how we love feeding our pups table scraps!

In some cases, it's fine (but be aware of what's safe and what isn't). But, in other cases, you should just avoid it altogether.

Especially on holidays like the 4th of July, your dog will likely be around people who don't know what's okay for dogs or not.

When Uncle Dave (who doesn't have a dog) sees your good boy or girl, they might instantly want to give them food.

Without knowing any better, who is to say they won't give them a grape or something else dangerous?

It's best to tell your friends or family visiting to not give any food to your dog.

4th of July Dog Safety Tips