The short answer
- Since 1 August 2026, consumers in the Netherlands may no longer buy or set off consumer fireworks. Sparklers and other F1 fireworks are still allowed.
- Professional shows and local exemptions are still possible, and illegal fireworks will not disappear overnight. Expect less noise, not silence.
- Start preparing a few weeks ahead, and talk to your vet early if your dog is very anxious.
For many dogs, New Year's Eve is the hardest night of the year. This year is different: it's the first New Year's Eve under the national ban on consumer fireworks. Good news for dogs, but it doesn't mean you can skip the planning.
What changes this New Year's Eve
The ban comes from the Wet veilige jaarwisseling and took effect on 1 August 2026. From New Year's Eve 2026/2027, shops no longer sell consumer fireworks and consumers may not set them off.
- Still allowed: F1 fireworks, such as sparklers and party poppers.
- Professional shows: still possible, with fixed safety distances.
- Local exemptions: a mayor can allow associations or foundations with local ties to set off fireworks.
Why your dog still needs a plan
Shows, exemptions and illegal fireworks mean there will still be bangs, and sometimes in the days before and after. A dog that panics at one loud bang can still bolt or hide for hours. A calm plan makes the evening easier for both of you.
Start a few weeks ahead
- Build a safe den. A crate or corner with a blanket over it, in the quietest room. Let your dog use it freely now, so it feels safe on the night.
- Practise with sound, gently. Play firework sounds at a very low volume during meals or play. Stop if your dog looks stressed.
- Check the chip details. Make sure your phone number and address are up to date in the chip registration, and put an ID tag on the collar.
- Talk to your vet early. If your dog is very anxious, ask about options well before the end of December. Never give your dog human medicine.
On 31 December
- Walk in daylight. Do the long walk early in the day, always on a leash or a well-fitting harness.
- Feed earlier. Give the main meal before it gets dark, so your dog is full and calm.
- Close curtains, add sound. Shut windows and curtains and put on music or the TV to soften the bangs.
- Comfort is fine. Stay calm and let your dog choose where to hide. Comforting a scared dog does not make the fear worse.
- Keep doors closed. Check that doors and gates are shut before anyone goes out. Keep cats inside too.
The days after
Some dogs stay jumpy for a few days. Keep walks short and quiet, stick to the normal routine and avoid places where people still set off leftover fireworks.
Questions owners ask
Consumer fireworks are. F1 fireworks such as sparklers are still allowed, and professional shows and local exemptions are still possible.
In daylight, earlier in the day, on a leash. Keep the evening walk short and close to home. Away that day? A Bondly dog walker can take over.
Yes. Calm comfort does not make the fear worse. Let your dog decide where to hide and stay nearby.
