What to do if your child is afraid of dogs

Whether you own a dog or not, it is vital to supervise your children’s interactions with any dogs they might encounter to keep both dog and child safe. A negative experience with a dog at a young age can deeply influence a child and can develop into a lasting fear or phobia, impacting their comfort around dogs throughout life.

If your child has been bitten or frightened by a dog, their caution in future interactions is understandable. Nevertheless, early intervention is important to help them work through this fear and build positive, confident relationships with dogs over time.

1. Connect and Empathise with Your Child

Begin by acknowledging your child's feelings. Let them know you understand and are there to support them. Offering kindness and emotional support does not reinforce their anxiety, but instead helps them feel heard and safe, which is crucial for progress.

2. Be an Ally to Your Child

Advocate for your child’s needs by taking practical steps, such as politely requesting that dog owners keep their dogs on leads in public areas. Always avoid forcing your child into uncomfortable situations. Validate their feelings and reassure them that you support them fully.

3. Gradual Exposure to Dogs

This is the cornerstone of helping overcome fear. Begin with safe, low-pressure steps such as:

• Looking at pictures or reading books about dogs together.
• Using a softly cuddly toy dog to play and familiarise your child with the idea of dogs.
• Observing calm, well-mannered dogs from a distance, for example behind a fence or through a window.
• Progressing to being in the same room with such a dog, initially sitting far apart and gradually getting closer.
• With your child’s permission and comfort, encouraging gentle petting under your close supervision.

This process takes time and patience, allowing your child to set the pace and build trust and confidence safely.

4. Reinforce Success and Celebrate Progress

Recognise and celebrate every small step your child takes with positive reinforcement. Praise, stickers, or small rewards help encourage them and make the experience enjoyable.

5. Make Overcoming Fear Fun and Empowering

Engage your child’s imagination by turning the experience into a fun adventure. Use games, storytelling, or superhero motifs to help them feel brave and in control of their interactions.

6. Provide Education About Dogs

Teaching your child about common dog behaviours, such as barking, jumping, or licking, can help demystify these actions. Demonstrate calm and confident interactions with dogs yourself as a role model. This knowledge helps children recognise when dogs are being friendly or need space.

7. Develop a Plan for Safe Encounters

Discuss and prepare your child for possible dog encounters. Teach them what to do if approached by a dog, how to behave, and how to express their feelings to adults or dog owners. This planning boosts your child’s confidence when facing real situations.

8. Seek Professional Help if Required

If your child’s fear significantly impacts their life, consider consulting a paediatrician, child psychologist, or behavioural expert. Professional therapies, including exposure therapy, can be very effective in helping children overcome intense fears.

Summary Tables of Steps to Help Your Child

Helping a child overcome fear of dogs requires patience, understanding, and compassion. By following these expert-backed steps, you can guide your child safely towards feeling comfortable and confident around dogs while promoting respect and caution for all canine interactions.