Chester is nearly 13 weeks. We’ve had fireworks nearby on and off since we got him and he’s never been bothered. But last night was Bonfire Night and I took him out for a wee at about 5pm and one went off above our heads, and it was really loud and he was terrified. He didn’t wee again until 10.30pm and laid lethargically on the sofa with us all night. when he did finally pee it was in the living room as I tried to take him out but another one went off. Managed to get him out for a number two later fortunately. In true Chester fashion, he slept all night without a peep thankfully. This morning he seems still scared of the outside and lethargic. And today his supposed to be his first walk so I’m worried about it overwhelming him. We’d been doing amazing with potty training and I hope to god this hasn’t ruined it for us. Had anyone else experienced lethargy after being scared? What can I do to make him not scared of going outside? I just want to get his confidence back up but worry today isn’t the day to take him out. We were so looking forward to it too.
Hopefully you have already been taking him out and about to get new experiences even if you have been carrying him. I would go out in the car to somewhere quite and take a toy. Play a few games and get him associating outside with fun. Formal walks can wait. Fireworks are a nightmare for most dog owners. Buy a Licki mat(I use peanut butter or banana) and bring it out when they start. The action of licking is suppose to be calming.
Hiya, thank you for your response. Turns out I was worrying over nothing - as soon as he realised there weren’t anymore fireworks he was absolutely fine! we went on his first walk today and he absolutely loved it. He’s been socialised loads already out and about with me and we’re lucky to have a local doggy day care he was allowed to be at prior to having his second shot. He’s such a good boy
