8 Tips for Helping Kids Get Over Fear of Dogs

Children sometimes develop unreasonable phobias. Here are some ideas that may help your child:

• Visit a local pet store. When kids don't know if a dog will try to lick their face or push them over, they feel out of control. Letting your child watch puppies from behind a barrier will help her feel safe, while helping desensitize her to their wiggly, unpredictable movements.

• Acknowledge your child's fear without adding your own drama to the mix.

• Narrate an experience to lessen your child's panic. "That doggie is making loud noises and it's making you nervous." Or, "Jo-Jo is jumping around a lot--you get shaky when he moves so fast." By helping language what your child is experiencing, you'll make it easier for them to express what they are feeling--"I'm really scared right now, Mommy"--instead of having an emotional meltdown.

• Offer reassurance."I understand you are afraid. I will stay right by you." Be supportive, without judging, shaming or scolding your child. And don't invalidate their experience by saying things like, "There's nothing to be afraid of." That simply conveys that you don't have a clue about what it feels like to live inside their skin.

• Reach out to a therapy dog organization which may be able to locate a canine in your area who has undergone extensive training to be calm around visitors. You may also help desensitize your child by taking him/her around a very settled, older dog--one who has proven to be very mellow and easy-going, and isn't likely to make unpredictable moves.

• Role play. Use their stuffed animal dogs to act out situations that your child finds frightening.

• Model a confident attitude when you approach someone with a dog. Rather than asking, "Is it safe to pet your dog?" or "Does she bite?" pose neutral questions like "Can we meet your dog?" Tell your child that dogs like to sniff and lick people to get to know them, and let them watch you interact in a gentle and respectful way first.

• Toys and treats: Let your child toss a special toy or treat to a dog you know to be sweet and friendly, while it is held on a leash or behind a safety gate. This will gently establish a relationship between them that allows your child to feel in charge, while comfortably enjoying the dog's excitement and delight. 

Every child comes with a unique temperament. Some embrace the unexpected antics of animals, while others are profoundly rattled by the unpredictability of animals. Try these ideas, take it slow, and your child should gradually become more comfortable with dogs. Best of luck!