Some children may suffer with a fear of dogs which might be difficult for adults to understand. Perhaps the child has never had a bad experience with a dog, or they may even be fine with their own dog at home. According to Dr. Reesa Sorin of James Cook University, research shows that such anxieties often stem from fear of the unknown, and can become elevated due to the strong imaginations of young children.
Kids who experience extreme fear may avoid parties or play dates at homes of friends who have dogs, or may even refuse to play outside for worry that a dog will come by.
Child development experts advise that one of the most important things parents can do is to show your child that you understand by validating their feelings. “It can be hard to spend time around a dog when you feel afraid,” rather than trying to explain that it’s a friendly dog.
Also recommended is to get books about dogs, their care and behavior, dog jobs, etc., and let your child learn all about dogs, thereby reducing the “unknown” factor. Find tons of nonfiction dog books for kids here.
Little by little, work on socializing your child with calm, well-behaved dogs. Begin with small goals, like passing by a dog that is being walked on a leash. Praise each small accomplishment, and gradually try to have your child coexist with dogs. Don’t push your child to touch a dog until he or she feels ready.
Building your child’s confidence overall can also be helpful in overcoming anxiety. Improving in a sport, art skills, having household responsibilities, and riding the bus to school, are suggestions that can help build self-assurance.
Last but not least, if you are also uncomfortable around dogs, do your best to overcome it. For example, if a neighbor’s dog licks your hand be sure to say something like “Thanks for the kiss Fluffy, but I already washed my hands today.” This will be interpreted by your child much less negatively than simply making a face and moving away from the dog.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help your child to overcome a fear of dogs. However, if your child is experiencing extreme levels of fear, please consult with a child psychologist to further assist you. Eventually, you may even find yourself hearing the familiar phrase chanted by children across the land, “Pleeeeese can we get a dog”?
Lori Verni-Fogarsi has been an author, speaker, small business consultant, and Certified Master Trainer for 18+ years. Her novel, “Momnesia,” (contemporary women’s fiction) has been designated a National Indie Excellence Book Awards Finalist, and her nonfiction book, “Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs,” has been widely acclaimed in its genre. To learn more, please visit www.LoriTheAuthor.com and join Lori on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoriTheAuthor.
