photo credit: The Written Geek™

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Most children have things that they’re afraid of at some time in their lives. In some cases, the things they’re afraid of are not real, such as the bogeyman under the bed! In other cases, they’re afraid of something they encounter on a regular basis, such as dogs. This can make life difficult.

Children can become afraid of dogs in two ways. Firstly, they have an encounter with a dog that scares them so much, they become frightened of any dog. Secondly, they may not have met a dog before, and they may become anxious if the dog is exuberant and wants to jump on them.

Either way, you as the parent can take steps to help your child get over their fear of dogs.

1. Your child will model their reaction to dogs on yours. You must stay calm and relaxed when a dog approaches. This will demonstrate to your child that there really isn’t anything to be afraid of. This might be difficult if you too are nervous around dogs, but it’s important that you don’t show your child that you are afraid.

2. Teach your child that if a dog approaches them, they mustn’t run away screaming. This will encourage the dog to chase them, which will be even more frightening! Instead, show them how to stand still with their fists clenched to keep their fingers safe, and to stare at the ground. If they stare into a dog’s eyes, he will interpret it as a challenge, and is again more likely to jump up on them.

3. Expose your child slowly to a dog that you know is quiet and calm. Firstly, have the dog crated and just let your child be in the same room as the dog. Slowly increase your child’s exposure to the dog. Encourage them to go up to the crate and offer him a treat. They may become confident enough to pat him through the crate. Gradually, progress to having the dog outside the crate but on a leash, and encourage your child to approach him, treat him and pat him. It’s a long slow process and it mustn’t be rushed.

4. When your child is comfortable with this one dog, take them to a dog show where they can meet many dogs of different sizes and shapes. The dogs who attend dog shows are usually very well behaved, and their owners are often quite happy to introduce their dogs to you. Your child will learn that most dogs are friendly and won’t do them any harm.

5. Teach your child never to approach a dog without the owner present, and to always ask permission before they pat a dog. Some dogs just don’t like children, and it would be a shame for your child to get a fright if they were snapped at. It would undo all of your hard work.

Dogs are wonderful companions for children. Take your time and help your child get over their fear and they too can discover the joy that comes with sharing your life with a dog.

Dog Tips