Reader’s Question

Help, I am scared of dogs!

Our Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

Being frightened of animals, especially dogs, is not uncommon. Sometimes the fear of dogs ranges from being tense and apprehensive around them to being phobic — experiencing panic-like feelings. A fear of dogs can develop in many ways, including:

• A bad experience with a dog such as an attack, bite, or threatening experience can create a type of trauma-memory in which any dog makes us remember that bad experience, creating anxiety.
• We can become afraid of dogs if a parent or sibling was fearful. In our childhood, adults often tell us what is safe and what isn’t safe. A parent or adult who fears dogs can make us fearful by witnessing their reaction.
• Intense feelings can often be paired with an animal or a situation. If we are already frightened and we are confronted with a dog, for example, the dog becomes a reminder of that fearful situation.

On the good side, phobias and fear reactions are very treatable. Most mental health professionals are trained in the treatment of these situations, especially those using behavioral therapy. You might want to check with local professionals and ask directly if they treat phobias. Universities often have clinics for phobias or anxiety disorders.

In reality, the vast majority of dogs are harmless and only a few simple techniques can be learned to reduce problems with dogs and other animals. Local vets may also have literature or referrals available for animal fears and phobias.