There is no pet quite like a dog. No other pet is as intelligent, loyal, and loving. Dogs are everywhere, and many people find that dogs bring immense joy into people’s lives.
Still, not everyone feels comfortable around dogs. Some people get overwhelmed by the behaviors – barking, jumping, and general energy. Others have past trauma with dogs, or have witnessed scary events that have made it much more challenging to truly embrace having one of these pets nearby.
That can be an issue, especially if someone is:
- Marrying into a pet family.
- Has a family that wants a dog.
- Feels like their fear of dogs is interfering with their lives.
This type of fear is a real phobia, known as “Cynophobia,” and it’s something that generally benefits from a therapist. So, that’s what we did here at Chicago Dog Trainer: we spoke to some therapists to see what they recommend for people that have a fear of dogs, and what can be done to help reduce that fear.
Please note that all mental health issues benefit from seeing a therapist, rather than treating it at home, so while these can be beneficial, reach out to a local therapist if you need help addressing this fear.
Tip 1: Expose Yourself to Dogs Slowly
Sadi Fox is a therapist in Brooklyn and owner of Flourish Psychology. She writes: “The more you’re exposed to dogs in general, the less fear you should experience over time. This is one of the principles of exposure therapy. Start to look at cute and funny pictures of dogs online, and eventually make your way to videos. See how you can smile, laugh, and enjoy the funny things dogs do. This can help associate dogs with laughter and joy instead of fear.”
Tip 2: Reframe Your Thought Process
Jon Abelack is a therapist in New Canaan, CT. His recommendation is to work on reframing your association with dogs through a process called “Cognitive Restructuring.” Jon writes: “Not all dogs are dangerous and mean, some are very friendly and well behaved. We know this, cognitively, so we have to take the time to reframe our thoughts by going over this truth over and over until it sticks.”
Tip 3: Develop Your Coping Tools
Esther is a therapist in San Francisco. She recommends taking the time to develop and then initiate your coping tools in advance, and then practicing them around dogs. “Learn how to breathe slowly, regain your thoughts, and be mindful of how you feel,” she says. “Figure out what you need to cope, and then test that theory around dogs in safe settings so that you can learn to associate dogs with a feeling of being calm and in control.”
The Value of Overcoming Your Dog Fears
It doesn’t matter if you plan to live with a dog or you’re just tired of feeling anxious around them. No one should have to live feeling anxious and stressed about the idea of being around man’s best friend. Whether you need professional help or it’s something you feel like you can tackle on your own, there is immense benefit to taking the time to address your fears, your phobias, and be able to appreciate all the joys dogs can bring into a person’s life.
