'Daughter's fear of dogs'

Daughter's fear of dogs

Jeanette (70.176.46.252) -

My daughter is afraid of dogs. It stems from an incident over a year ago when my sister's dog growled at her while she and her cousin were fighting over a toy. Ever since then, she is petrified of them. We've tried everything. Any suggestions?

Comment #1 Lucy (66.24.100.217) -

If it were me I would introduce a small friendly dog to the child through a fence or if it is inside the house but up a baby gate and introduce them with the child on one side and the dog on the other side. Maybe have the dogs favorite treats and toys on hand for the child to give to the dog. If you introduce through fence/gate the child can determine when she wants to approach the dog. Maybe if the dog is on the other side of the gate/fence the dog will have a chance to calm down. Kids get scared when dogs are excited and jump. We as adults know that the dog is playing but kids don't know that. This is the way I would do it if it were my child but only you can determine what is best for your child. Good Luck!

Comment #2 Jeanette from AZ -

Our neighbors have two little dogs and she is a little receptive to them, but only because she has known them for a long time. Her fear is of the bigger dogs. I like the idea of maybe introducing them through a gate/fence. I'll have to try that. Thanks!!

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