Fear of dogs
A life with a fear of dogs – and what we as dog owners can contribute to reduce conflicts
We all at Charlotte’s Choice have something in common: Our dogs are large, powerful – and often impressive in their appearance. For us, this is completely normal. However, for other people, it can be unsettling or even frightening.
Many of us know such situations: We are out and about with our dogs, relaxed – suddenly someone crosses the street, stops, or starts calling or shouting from a distance. Perhaps we then thought: “Don’t exaggerate – he’s not doing anything!” Or we simply could not understand the reaction.
If our dog is not welcome – neither are we
Those who have large dogs know this:
Not everywhere is our four-legged friend welcome. Many consciously choose to avoid certain places, encounters, or even friends – following the motto: Where my dog is not welcome, I will not go either. However, if we have a very people-friendly dog who enjoys interacting with strangers, we naturally take him along – just as we do with our two Great Dane mixes. They love people, enjoy being approached and petted – and experience 99% positive reactions.
And yet: There are people who are very afraid of dogs – and we must take this into consideration, even if we cannot understand it.For the more we, as dog owners, are willing to avoid unnecessary conflicts, the less we provide grounds for new laws or restrictions – which ultimately harm us all.
A change of perspective: Living with cynophobia
In this blog, we would like to consciously change the perspective. It is about cynophobia – the pronounced fear of dogs – and how everyday life feels for people who suffer from it. The following article was written by Oliver Weber and Ana Lienert, who have been specializing for years in professionally supporting people with dog anxiety at the Dog Coach Training Center in Rothenfluh (BL). Over 450 clients from all over Europe have learned to move safely and without fear in everyday life thanks to their coaching.
Everyday Life with Cynophobia (Fear of Dogs):
Insight into the Life of a Person Suffering from Fear of Dogs
The fear of dogs, also known as cynophobia, is a widespread phobia that affects many people – especially children. For those who suffer from this fear, everyday life can become a constant challenge. In this article, we take a detailed look at the life of a person with cynophobia and how this fear impacts various aspects of daily life.
A Morning Full of Tension
The day often begins with a certain tension. Just getting up can evoke a queasy feeling at the thought that dogs might be outside. Thoughts revolve around the possibility that a dog could be at the door or in the neighborhood.This constant worry can intensify morning stress and lead to feeling uncomfortable before the day has even truly begun.
To minimize anxiety, the affected person might try to plan their route to work or school in a way that avoids heavily frequented dog areas. However, this may mean that they have to take longer routes or even resort to public transportation, which may not be the best option. The constant worry of encountering a dog can turn the morning into an emotional struggle.
The way to work or school
On the way to work or school, anxiety often becomes even more intense. The affected person constantly scans the surroundings for possible dogs and feels unsafe in places where a dog might appear. A sudden bark or the sound of paws on the sidewalk can make the heart race.Even when no dog is in sight, the fear remains present. This constant tension can lead to exhaustion and impair concentration on other things.
When the person arrives at their destination, they are often mentally exhausted. The fear has not only affected the morning but has also clouded the anticipation for the day. Thoughts continue to revolve around the possibility of encountering a dog during the workday or at school.
Social interactions and leisure
Social interactions can pose a significant challenge for people with cynophobia. A visit to friends or family members who own dogs is often avoided. The fear of being in such a situation can lead to declining invitations or distancing oneself from loved ones.This can lead to a feeling of isolation, as the affected person feels that their anxiety excludes them from social activities.
Even in leisure time, the fear of dogs can spoil the fun. A trip to the park or a visit to a festival can become a challenge when one is constantly on guard. The joy of nature or social events is often overshadowed by the constant worry about dogs. This can lead to feeling more comfortable in enclosed spaces, which in turn can impair physical activity and overall well-being.
Learning to cope with fear in a professional coaching environment
Managing cynophobia is an important part of daily life. Many affected individuals seek strategies to reduce their anxiety.This often includes therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, or medication treatments that can help understand and gradually reduce anxiety.
An exposure coaching with selected therapy dogs, where the affected person gradually and controlled encounters dogs, can also be very helpful. Rapid progress is possible as the theory is directly linked to practice.
The coaching offer from Oliver Weber and Ana Lienert
👉 www.angst-before-hunden.ch
aims to help people overcome their fear of dogs and to understand exactly how a dog functions, how it experiences the environment, communicates, etc.
A major advantage of this combined therapy concept is that it is specifically tailored to individual needs and provides a structured, safe framework to deal with this fear.
What can dog owners do when someone is visibly afraid – but does not openly show it?
There are several steps that dog owners can take to ensure that strangers feel safe and are not afraid of their dog. Dealing with the fears of others requires consideration – both for the dog and for the concerns of others.
Here are some helpful tips:
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Leash and control the dog
Lead your dog on aleash – especially in busy or unclear areas. Dogs running freely – especially large or boisterous animals – can trigger fear in strangers. A calm, controlled lead conveys safety. -
Lead dogs calmly and friendly
A fidgety or excited dog often amplifies the fear in other people.Make sure that your dog remains calm in encounter situations and that you lead him confidently. -
Give people space
Many people feel uncomfortable when a dog comes too close – regardless of how friendly it is. Keep your distance and ask if it is okay for the dog to come closer. Always respect the personal boundaries of the person you are interacting with. -
Only introduce your dog calmly
If someone shows interest, only introduce your dog when he is truly calm. Some people want to approach carefully and slowly – give them time and space for that. Never let your dog run up to others uninvited. -
Show positive body language yourself
Dogs are sensitive to body language – and so are people.If you appear friendly, calm, and approachable, it not only helps your dog but also makes the people around you feel safe. -
Watch for signs of fear or aggression – in the dog
Observe your dog closely: Does he show signs of fear or insecurity (e.g., tucked tail) or even aggression (growling, showing teeth)? Then keep your distance and calm him down before the situation escalates. -
Be aware of the situation
React consciously to your environment: If you notice that someone is visibly anxious, keep your dog calm and avoid any unnecessary interaction. It's not about hiding your dog – but about showing consideration. -
Good socialization makes the difference
A well-socialized dog that has had many positive experiences with people and situations will behave calmly and friendly even in new or stressful environments. Regular visits to public places, interacting with different people and animals, help your dog to remain confident.
Conclusion
The best approach is a calm, respectful, and controlled interaction with your dog – combined with an empathetic attitude towards the fears of other people.
Those who are willing to take responsibility help to build trust and avoid conflicts.
Tip at the end
Do you know someone with a fear of dogs?
Then feel free to pass on the contact to the Dog Coach Training Center:
