Helpful tips to help you cope with your fear of dogs

Many people at different stages of life think: “How to stop being afraid of dogs?” Useful recommendations from dog handlers explaining dogs' reactions to human behavior, and advice from psychologists can dull the fear of these animals. In general, you need to fight your fear of canines as early as possible. It makes life difficult in both cities and rural areas.

After all, no matter how much a person wants, he encounters four-legged animals every day. Moreover, among them there are both socialized domestic dogs, which rarely show aggression or increased interest in humans, and stray dogs. Domestic and wild dogs have different behavioral patterns, but the basic tips on how to deal with the fear of them are the same. It remains to figure out how to apply them in practice.

Options for fear

A person may be afraid of dogs, even small or decorative breeds

1. Fear of small dogs. At the same time, a person calmly treats healthy dogs, but he is stressed by small mongrels, from whom you don’t know what to expect. It is believed that the smaller the size, the more aggressive it can be. This happens because the small animal is afraid of everyone around her.
2. Fear of decorative dogs. Cinemaphobes explain it by the fact that secret aggression may be hidden under the guise of a cute animal.
3. Fear of large dogs. Most often observed. When any person sees a healthy dog, the instinct of self-preservation is triggered. People may even develop associations with sharks, crocodiles or piranhas.
4. Fear of stray yard dogs. These animals found themselves in the wild and learned to survive. For them, aggressive behavior may become the norm.
5. Fear of dogs on a chain. It is believed that animals that are deprived of their freedom become aggressive.

Socializing a pet that is afraid of people

How to deal with a fearful dog:

1. Remember that during times of fear you should not feel sorry for your pet, nor should you scold it. He becomes disoriented and will continue to be afraid next time, in the hope that he will be pitied.
2. You are a strong master leader and remain calm. Pretend that you are not afraid of anything, let the dog take an example from you.
3. Socialize your dog gradually. First, meet new people.

New acquaintances can come to visit you at home or invite old friends for walks

At the same time, do not focus on your pet. Don’t let him start to be a coward ostentatiously and think that this is necessary, since there are guests in the house or an old acquaintance is with you on a walk.

When the dog gets used to a person, you can ask him to talk to him affectionately, and then bring your hand to his muzzle (hold your palm up), let him sniff and carefully try to stroke him. Gradually begin to communicate with other people, then walk the dog on a leash in the company of its old friends

If you adopted a dog from a shelter, which is noble, but he is very shy, then even a year may not be enough for him to get used to it and begin to trust people.

A good way of socialization when you take a puppy into a home where there is an older dog. On the street you, and then an acquaintance of the older dog, pet him. The younger one will observe that he likes it and sooner or later he will allow himself to be stroked. The main thing is that the dog is among people every day. Isolation will lead to even greater fear of a person.

Every day 2-4 times or even more, take your pet for walks among people. Start walking in less crowded areas and gradually move to busier ones. As the fruit of your long psychological work on behavior correction, you will soon be able to walk with him even around the market, examining and choosing goods.

When your pet gets comfortable in a city or village, even take him to exhibitions, even if only as a guest. There he will see many relatives.

What can an animal's habits indicate?

If the phrase “I’m very afraid of dogs” applies to you, then you need to know the behavioral characteristics of these animals and understand what’s on their mind.

1. The tail is tense, the dog walks from side to side. At this moment, the animal may think about whether or not to attack the person in its field of vision.
2. The dog wags its tail happily, and the dog may stick out its tongue. Showing a desire to get to know each other. The animal is friendly.
3. The fur is raised on end, the ears are pricked. Showing dissatisfaction, the dog is preparing to attack.
4. A tucked tail and flattened ears are an indication that the dog is afraid but still ready to attack.
5. Growling with display of fangs is a direct readiness to attack.
6. Loud barking. The dog shows that you are on his territory. This is also a warning. If the person does not leave, he will be bitten.

Treatment of cynophobia

If the prerequisite for the phobia is an objective reason - psychological trauma from a dog bite, from an attack by a pack of animals, then psychotherapy is very effective in this case. There are many techniques specifically developed by psychologists to treat fear of dogs.

In the absence of timely treatment, cynophobia can cause antisocial behavior: a person “falls out” of social life, stops going out into the street, to work, and reduces communication with other people. Most often, it is not difficult to remove a phobia through working with a psychologist. But sometimes a course of psychotherapy is not enough to treat a phobic disorder in a severe stage. In this case, additional drug treatment is prescribed. Today, a course of SSRI antidepressants is considered the most effective.

In the presence of phobic disorders, the dog also suffers from somatic and mental symptoms, and in particular from sleep disorders and nightmares. So remember: the object of your phobia is afraid of a lot himself!

Causes of phobia

The very sight of an animal, its grin, can be frightening.
If a woman began to be afraid of dogs, or a man, then, for sure, this event was preceded by some external factors. In rare cases, this phobia may be congenital; in others, it is provoked by one of the following reasons.

1. Misbehavior of parents. From childhood, a child may be prohibited from touching a dog, even a domestic one, with the argument that it might bite. Over time, the baby develops an understanding that dogs pose a danger to him.
2. The grin of an animal can greatly frighten a child or a weak-willed man or woman.
3. Experiencing an attack, either as a witness or as a victim, can even create a lifelong phobia.
4. Fear of rabies. In fact, the fear is directed at the disease that these animals may carry.
5. Being present at dog fights shows how aggressive these animals can be and what injuries they can cause. And this can give rise to severe fear when being close to a dog.
6. Watching scary films in which dogs play the main roles.

It is not always the case that a person who has survived a dog attack begins to experience strong fear towards these animals. My brother was bitten on the leg by a dog as a child, and quite severely. However, when he grew up, he did not dislike these animals and is not afraid of them.

What to do if a child is afraid of dogs?

It is easier to overcome the fear of dogs as a child than as an adult. To overcome cynophobia in a child, you can even get him a pet. But it is important that he appears in the house from a very early age. This will give the baby the understanding that he is in control of the situation. Classes with child psychologists, watching dogs while walking, watching cartoons and films about these animals also help in the fight against the disease. The most important factor for success is the correct behavior of parents. They have to:

• do not scold the child for the emotions he experiences;
• don't make fun of him because of his phobia;
• show empathy, support;
• calmly talk about the causes and consequences of fear;
• Do not force anyone to meet dogs.

Main manifestations

When you see dogs, you may experience pain in the heart, tightness in the chest, and sometimes numbness.

1. Feeling of pseudo-threat. In a situation where a person’s life is not in danger, he may experience uncontrollable fear, even at the sight of a small puppy.
2. Bodily discomfort. Chest pain, chest tightness, and muscle tension may occur. Moreover, even the barking of a dog that is at a distance can provoke a panic attack.
3. Fear even of pictures of dogs.
4. Psychopathological condition. Characterized by alertness and increased irritability. A person is afraid to even go out into the yard, because there you can meet stray dogs.

Symptoms of cynophobia

The main symptom of cynophobia is constant internal tension in the patient without objective reasons.
He constantly seems to be expecting a dog attack, and is haunted by obsessive thoughts about a potential threat. Sleep disturbances are also a concomitant symptom of most anxiety-phobic disorders. Nightmarish dreams, insomnia at night and drowsiness during the day, interrupted sleep, a long time to fall asleep - a typical clinical picture with increased anxiety.

The film phobe often turns pale, blushes, and may feel hot or shuddering for no objective reason. The desire to constantly change body position, fussiness and languor, involuntary movements indicate akathisia. The following somatic symptoms are characteristic of a cynophobe:

• muscle spasms;
• increased sweating;
• cardiopalmus;
• tightness in the chest;
• heart pain, arrhythmia;
• strong thirst;
• increased diurination;
• disorders in the gastrointestinal tract.

Mental symptoms are no less diverse:

constant nervous tension; excessive caution; fixation of attention on negative phenomena; aggression, irritability; attempts to control your every action and thought; “soul-searching”, the desire to analyze the past; pessimism, obsessive thoughts about bad premonitions -

Here is an approximate description of the psychological state of a cinemaphobe.

In severe forms of the disease, panic attacks periodically occur. During an attack, the patient experiences uncontrollable horror of the object of the phobia, as well as the fear of death from a lack of understanding of what is happening to his body. All this is accompanied by extensive somatic symptoms, as well as depersonalization (loss of division of the world into “one’s own self” and “others”), unrealization (biased vision of what is happening). In addition to panic attacks, vegetative crises and situational nervous breakdowns may appear against the background of fear of dogs.

A kinophobe’s pronounced symptoms manifest themselves not only in the presence of dogs. Sometimes just the thought of fear, a bad feeling, or imaginary apprehension is enough to trigger an attack. In this case, the following physical symptoms are present:

• arrhythmia, tachycardia;
• asphyxia, feeling of suffocation;
• hyperhidrosis;
• pressing headaches;
• vomiting, nausea that does not bring relief;
• aggression towards others without objective reasons;
• intense anxiety;
• slurred speech, disordered thoughts;
• thoughts of suicide, fear of dying.

Peculiarities of behavior when meeting a dog

Don't run away when you see a dog

Some people can independently provoke an animal into aggression. Under no circumstances should you touch a dog that is eating or licking its young. Also, do not run away when you see a dog.

1. If you encounter a pack, immediately determine who is in charge. All actions that you can take should be directed against this animal. After all, by scaring him, you will get rid of the entire flock.
2. It is unacceptable to look a dog in the eyes. In almost all cases, your gaze will be regarded as a signal to attack. It is better to lower your eyes down and keep your hands pressed to your body so that the animal can see that the person is not aggressive.
3. There is no need to try to smile; any facial movements can be perceived by the animal as an attempt to bare their teeth. Therefore, a signal that you need to defend yourself.
4. A red herring. A dog may go on the offensive when it believes it is in danger. If at this moment you throw something at her, she may switch and forget about the person.
5. Correct movement. When you see an approaching dog, you can pick up a stone or stick from the ground, but you should not immediately throw it at the animal, as this may cause additional aggression. It is better to raise it demonstratively and wait for the dog to run away. If not, then throw it, but not sharply, but smoothly. Never turn your back to the dog, it may attack from behind.
6. Carry a stun gun or a gas canister, or a device with ultrasound. If something happens, this will help protect yourself.
7. If you see that the dog is about to attack, and there are no devices nearby, then you can try to neutralize the dog by hitting him in the nose. This is the animal's most vulnerable spot. If you can't strike, try to close his jaw by pressing your tongue. The dog will try to escape, this will reduce his aggression.

Adaptation for a Shy Puppy

It's good if you noticed the problem in time. Cowardly dogs are incredibly difficult to train

They may be smart, but fear is stronger. When training pets with a weak nervous system, “kickbacks” often occur. Just yesterday the puppy was calmly walking on the street, and after meeting a cyclist he is afraid to leave the house? Typical situation. Be patient.

What should be done? Adaptation program for a shy puppy

1. Take a walk.

Take a long walk at least 2-3 times a week. Yes, the baby will panic a lot, but it is necessary. In the process of walking, the puppy will get used to the street, and you will establish a close bond. Focus not on physical activity, but on studying the world around you. Walk along the streets, parks, bus stops... Always praise and give a treat for showing curiosity. This way, you will reinforce the normal reaction.

2. Be friends.

It is important to get to know the owners of adult, well-trained dogs. The younger ones follow the example of the older ones

It will be much easier for the puppy if he has company.

3. Train.

Cowardly pets need to be given mental exercise. During training, the animal concentrates, is distracted and calms down. This will provide better control in the future and help prevent scares.

These are the main, but far from the only points. Pay more attention to your relationship with your dog. Try to make her more confident, stroke and caress her more often. Make your pet feel like part of the family. Don't shout or scold.

Don't expect instant results. The effect will accumulate gradually. Most often, the program takes 6–12 months. Be prepared for the fact that you will have to struggle with certain problems throughout your life.

Adviсe

To make it easier to overcome your phobia, get a small puppy of a friendly breed

1. To understand how not to be afraid of dogs, you need to understand the reason that led to the formation of this phobia. If nothing comes to mind, you need to mentally return to childhood. Remember when you first experienced this fear, understand what happened before it. If the reason really lies in childhood, then perhaps it’s time to rethink your fears, understand that you have grown and become stronger.
2. If your dog's aggressive barking scares you, think about why it behaves this way. In most cases, this is a way to protect yourself when the dog senses danger from a person. Perhaps this particular animal was repeatedly abused by people.
3. You can watch the behavior of the yard dogs from the window and make sure that they do not bother anyone unless they are hurt.
4. To make it easier to make friends with man's four-legged friend, you can go to a place where dogs are often walked and chat with the owners. There you can hear many interesting stories from animal lovers. Over time, you will no longer be so scared to be near them, and then you will want to try to touch the animal, over time you will love it.
5. If possible, try to get yourself a pet, a small puppy, for example, a Labrador or a shepherd.
6. If you meet unfamiliar dogs on your way, there is no need to try to run away or freeze in place. In such a situation, you need to muster all your willpower, suppress your panic and continue going in the same direction. Most likely, the dog will remain silent or bark for show, but will not attack.
7. If this happens and you live in an area where a large number of stray dogs constantly live, then it will not be superfluous to purchase a stun gun. Carrying such a device in your pocket will make you feel calmer and protected.
8. If you still cannot overcome your fear, you can seek help from a specialist who can give you valuable advice.

The only way to avoid trouble is to not make a mistake when choosing a puppy.

Chat with the breeder. If he has nothing to hide, he will kindly answer all your questions, show his parents and conditions. Defects of the nervous system are transmitted genetically, so observe the behavior of the mother of the puppies.

One way to test temperament is through tests.

• Check your babies' reaction to noise. For example, the sound of keys falling. The “correct” puppy may be scared, but he will quickly adapt and go to see what is lying there.
• Try taking the baby to another room or outside if you have a fenced yard. See how he will behave without his brothers, sisters and mother. Bring a toy or some object. Observe the reaction.
• The baby should not bark, hide or just sit. A normal puppy is friendly and moderately curious. Of course, everyone is individual, but some reactions go beyond the norm.

Many choose the most timid and unfortunate one, because it becomes pitiful. Are you absolutely sure that you can cope with such a test? If yes, then let's find out what to prepare for.

Specialist help

The specialist will try to instill in a person a love for dogs, talk about their exploits and care for people

1. A person is given a picture of a dog.
2. They suggest writing on a piece of paper everything that scares you. It is believed that after several such sessions it is easier for the patient to touch a puppy, then it is no longer so scary to touch an adult.
3. Reincarnation. A person passing by a dog should think that he is an inanimate object that does not arouse any interest in the dog.
4. A positive example. People are told about dogs who became heroes and helped people.
5. Visiting friends who already have a dog, preferably a puppy. The film phobe must be present during his growing up and thus cope with his fear.

When should you visit the vet?

Unfortunately, sometimes the reason for such animal behavior is not the lack of proper education from the owner. Weakness of the nervous system is a common reason why an animal cannot normally enjoy walks. Due to the fact that the nerve endings do not function properly, even adults behave differently, constantly on guard.

Such animals have a high risk of stroke and other diseases that lead to death. They may be frightened by rustling noises, a crying child, or sounds that are somewhat louder than normal. The main reasons that you should visit a veterinarian are involuntary urination during loud noises, fear and shaking if the owner raises his voice a little, and panicky fear of other people. The veterinarian must examine the animal and take tests if necessary. If it is determined that the dog has a weakness of the nervous system, and possibly other diseases, appropriate treatment will be prescribed.

Weakness of the nervous system is one of the reasons for a dog’s inadequate reaction to people.

If a dog generally feels bad, it considers itself vulnerable and snaps at absolutely all strangers from whom it can receive a threat. For example, animals that suffer:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal system;
• hearts;
• feels weak;
• elevated temperature;
• dizziness and pain;
• become an easy target, and realizing this, they try to protect themselves.

Therefore, before learning commands with animals and trying to socialize him in any way, be sure to make sure that nothing bothers the dog.

Recommendations

In order not to think about the question of how to stop being afraid of animals, it is better to take care of your health in advance, not only physical, but also mental.

• It happens that others advise radical methods, which are likely to bring more difficulties than benefits. This refers to an offer to buy yourself a pet and get used to it while it is small and does not pose a threat. Except, of course, for spoiled bitten things. Be careful if you decide to use this method. Because if it doesn’t work, even at home you will no longer feel safe. And this will only strengthen the development of cinemaphobia without giving an answer on how to overcome it.
• Add foods to your diet that trigger the release of serotonin, the pleasure hormone. This way you will relieve your nervous system at least a little.
• Sport. Do exercises, push-ups, run, swim - in general, everything that you are allowed for health reasons. Exercise helps cope with anxiety and relieve tension.
• Meditate and practice breathing techniques to relax.
• Communicate with those who do not want to upset you, anger you, or hurt you. If there are toxic people in your environment, minimize contact with them.
• Find a hobby that brings you pleasure. Such activities will help you realize your accumulated energy, relax and improve your quality of life.