Dogs are often called man’s best friend. This may be partially true; however, that doesn’t mean they are a child’s best friend. In fact, some children are afraid of them. If this describes a child you know, you can use these smart ways of helping children overcome the fear of dogs.

Despite the fact they’re animals, dogs can be very similar to humans. You can tell when a dog is being playful or when they want to be left alone. Some dogs even smile at you because they’re happy to see you. When it comes to helping your child overcome the fear of dogs, it’s a good idea to begin by teaching them to read dog behavior.

If your child is afraid of dogs, take them to a pet store. They will have puppies and dogs for the child to look at but they stay behind a glass where the child and animal are safe. This will allow your child to see the animal without fear of being hurt.

Don’t try to force your child to pet an animal. They may have good reason for their fears. Let them watch dogs from a distance. This will allow them to see how dogs interact with other children and adults. It will help them to recognize when there is danger and when there is not.

After they become comfortable seeing the animal from behind the glass, ask if you can see one of the calmer animals. The sales person will bring dog into an enclosed room where you can get to know the animal. They will remain with you and will be able to help protect your child. They may also have some more ideas for helping your child overcome their fear of dogs.

Teach your child that when a dog is wagging its tail or its whole body, there usually is nothing to fear except if the dog inadvertently knocks the child down. Explain to the child that the dog is being friendly and that it means them no harm. This can be especially important if your child has been bitten or nipped at before.

On the other hand, if a dog comes running toward them with their ears back and barking, the child is fully justified in being scared. The child needs to know to stand still rather than run, however. Running may be an automatic response, but running will only encourage the dog to chase the child. Helping your child recognize the difference between a dog that’s friendly and one that’s not can make all the difference in the world as to how they respond to them.

When being introduced to a new dog, have your children follow these steps:

* Stand still; let the dog sniff at them.
* Let them look to you for cues as to whether the dog is friendly or not.
* After they become comfortable, or at least less uneasy with the dog being near them, teach them to hold out the back of their hand for the dog to smell.
* Finally, when they’re ready, tell them to move slowly and then gently pet the dog on the back of the neck or the head.

It is possible to help a child overcome their fear of dogs. These smart ways may give you information you need to help your child. If you’re still unsure about introducing your child to dogs, ask a veterinarian or your child’s pediatrician for more ideas.