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Fear of dogs

Samster
4 months ago

Hello, I'm hoping you may be able to help advise us. Our 6 year old son has always been wary of dogs but over the past few months his fear has got to the point where we are struggling to do anything for fear of bumping into a dog which is frequently. He gets really distressed and freezes and there is nothing we can do to calm him. Does anyone have any advice on what we can do to help him as currently it has meant that we are struggling to go out. Thanks so much

Parents
  • 4 months ago

    Your son has likely has frozen and looked straight in the eyes of dogs, and seen the dog's predatory nature, and anger. You need to give your son knowledge about body language of dogs, to not look them in the eyes, and to reherse with him about what to do in those situations when a dog is nearby, maybe with a dog stuffed toy or something. Also, give him absolute certainty that he will be protected from dogs, and that you will beat the dog up if it causes him any trouble. Maybe later on, you can show how to interact and greet friendly dogs, by showing him to allow a dog to sniff his hand as a greeting, and that he can pet the dog. But don't rush into this step. Dogs are like humans, they are very varied in terms of personalities. Some are nice, others are not so much. 

Reply
  • 4 months ago

    Your son has likely has frozen and looked straight in the eyes of dogs, and seen the dog's predatory nature, and anger. You need to give your son knowledge about body language of dogs, to not look them in the eyes, and to reherse with him about what to do in those situations when a dog is nearby, maybe with a dog stuffed toy or something. Also, give him absolute certainty that he will be protected from dogs, and that you will beat the dog up if it causes him any trouble. Maybe later on, you can show how to interact and greet friendly dogs, by showing him to allow a dog to sniff his hand as a greeting, and that he can pet the dog. But don't rush into this step. Dogs are like humans, they are very varied in terms of personalities. Some are nice, others are not so much. 

Children
  • 4 months ago in reply to Hullabaloo
    Hullabaloo said:
    looked straight in the eyes of dogs, and seen the dog's predatory nature, and anger.

    Dogs, generally, do not display predatory nature nor anger in their eyes.  Their predatory nature is displayed only when they notice prey, and no dog views a human as prey...a threat perhaps....but not prey.

    Dogs are likely to feel threatened if you stare at their eyes, but their eyes won't display anger....they will just meet the rudeness and challenge (as they see it) and convey "stop staring at me."

    Language about dog behaviour needs to be kept "tight" these days.  Inaccurate and inflammatory language (and a lack of understanding) continues to cause a lot of good dogs a lot of anguish....and that is not fair.

    I speak a few dialects of "dog" - so I will advocate for them where I see the need.