Helping a Child Overcome a Fear of Dogs

Article: "Helping a Child Overcome a Fear of Dogs"
Author: Rachel Paxton

It seems inevitable that at one time or another a child will have
an unpleasant run-in with a dog. When my twin boys were about 18
months old, their first encounter with a dog was not pleasant for
them. The dog was fairly small, but very energetic and ran
straight over to them and started jumping up on them. After that
experience it was months before they could even look at another
dog again.

If your children have grown up around dogs, then they will
probably not be as easily scared by a new dog. If your children
have not spent much time around dogs, then it is probably a good
idea to plan the circumstances around their first experiences
with a dog. It only takes one unfortunate situation to have your
child scared half out of his wits.

My boys are now almost three years old, and they are slowly
getting curious about dogs again. I have noticed that certain
situations we have been in have facilitated this curiousity.

First of all, you definitely want to start out with a small dog.
Many big dogs may be larger than your child is! Another thing
that will help is introducing them to dogs of people you
know...dogs that you know are safe. This is one reason you might
wait to overcome your child's fear until they are old enough to
understand that some dogs are "nice", and some dogs are not. At
about 2 1/2 years of age, my boys started to understand this
concept that they shouldn't try to pet all dogs. They always
look to me to let them know if a dog is nice or not.

Two members of our family have small dogs, and over time our boys
have slowly started to warm up to them. They started by being in
the same room with them, then gradually sat next to them.
Petting them gently was next, then even once in awhile they are
brave enough for a kiss! The important thing is to not force
your child to do anything he doesn't want to. This will not
alleviate his fear. The best thing to do is give him the
opportunity, and he will eventually take the step when he is
ready.

When you are out in public places, don't be afraid to tell dog
owners that your child is afraid of dogs if they let their dogs
get too close to your child. It infuriates me when people
disregard leash laws and let their dogs run around in a public
park where children are playing. Obviously they have never had a
child that was afraid of dogs! One bad experience with a dog can
undo months of work you have done with your child to overcome his
fears. I have found for the most part, however, that people are
generally respectful and understanding and if you let them know
your child is afraid of dogs they will steer clear with a
sympathetic smile. I have to laugh, however, when they tell me
their huge dog is nice and loves children. I know my boys will
appreciate that when they are bigger than the dog!

Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom of four. For more
inspirational articles and tips for everyday living, visit
http://www.christian-parent.com

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