How We We’re Able To Give Our Son A Dog Even When He’s Scared of Them
Understanding a Child’s Fear of Dogs
My youngest son has always been fearful of dogs. Initially, he was just unsure about them but would still make an attempt to pet them if they were under control. However, one fateful day at the beach changed everything. We arrived around the same time as a couple with a super excited dog. My little man wanted to pet him, and since the dog was on a leash, I didn’t see any potential harm. But then, the dog, in its sheer excitement, jumped up, put his paws on my son’s shoulders and accidentally scratched his face with its claws. That was the turning point. My son has been terrified of dogs ever since.
Still Longing to Love Dogs
Despite his fear, my son still has a strong desire to love dogs. However, he is not fond of their jumping or licking habits. This fear is so intense, that he refuses to go outside at my brother-in-law’s house if the dogs are running around. But, I can see the longing in his eyes. He wants to play with them. He throws a stick or ball, but the moment they come running back, he rushes to me, seeking refuge in my arms. I understand that I cannot cure his fear overnight. However, I can certainly give our son a dog that he can control and not feel scared of.
The Journey to Give Our Son a Dog
Our journey to give our son a dog is one filled with care and consideration. It’s not about just getting a dog. It’s about finding a dog that can help alleviate my son’s fear. In order to give our son a dog, we need to ensure that the dog’s temperament matches his comfort level. We also need to make sure that the dog is well-trained and can follow commands. This way, my son will feel like he is in control and not threatened by the dog’s behaviour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Choose the Right Dog for a Child who is Afraid of Dogs?
Choosing the right dog involves considering the dog’s breed, size, age and temperament. A calm and gentle breed, such as a Labrador or a Bichon Frise, may be a good choice. The dog should also be well-trained and obedient.
How to Help a Child Overcome Fear of Dogs?
Helping a child overcome their fear of dogs involves gradual exposure and positive experiences. Start with a calm and gentle dog and allow the child to observe the dog from a distance. Gradually, let the child pet the dog under controlled conditions. Celebrate each small victory and remain patient.
Can Owning a Dog Help a Child Overcome Fear of Dogs?
Yes, owning a dog can indeed help a child overcome their fear of dogs. However, the process needs to be gradual and the dog should be of a nature that is comfortable for the child.
Conclusion: Giving Our Son a Dog
In conclusion, to give our son a dog, we need to take into account his fears and find a canine companion that matches his comfort level. The process may be slow, but it’s definitely worth the effort. After all, nothing compares to the bond between a child and their dog. The journey to give our son a dog is filled with patience, understanding, and love.
| Event | Reaction | Fear Level |
|---|---|---|
| Initial encounters with dogs | Unsure but still attempted to pet | Low |
| Dog jumps and scratches on the beach | Terrified and developed fear of dogs | High |
| Seeing dogs at brother-in-law’s house | Avoids going outside, shows fear | High |
| Trying to play with dogs | Throws a stick/ball but runs away in fear | Moderate |
| Introduction of a pet dog at home | Not mentioned, but could help reduce fear | To be seen |
Overcoming the Fear: Our Path to Give Our Son a Dog
We realized that our journey to give our son a dog was not about just getting a pet. It was about understanding his fear, taking steps to alleviate it, and ultimately finding a dog that would fit into our family and help our son overcome his fear. This was a task that required a lot of patience, understanding, and love.
Understanding the Fear
Understanding my son’s fear was the first step in this journey. His fear wasn’t just about the physical contact with dogs. It was also about the unpredictability of their actions. The jumping, the licking, the sudden movements – these were things that scared him. He wasn’t afraid of dogs per se, but rather, he was afraid of what they might do. It was important to address this fear head-on and find ways to help him overcome it.
Helping Our Son Overcome His Fear
Helping our son overcome his fear was a gradual process. We started by introducing him to calm and well-behaved dogs. We let him observe them from a distance, ensuring that he was comfortable. Slowly, we allowed him to get closer, to pet them, and eventually to play with them. Each small victory was celebrated and each setback was taken in stride. It was a slow process, but we knew that rushing it would only make things worse.
Choosing the Right Dog
Choosing the right dog to give our son was a crucial step. We had to take into account the breed, size, age, and temperament of the dog. We needed a dog that was calm, gentle, and well-behaved. A dog that would not jump or lick excessively. A dog that would listen to commands and be easy to control. After extensive research and consultation with dog trainers and experts, we finally decided on a Labrador. Known for their gentle nature and obedience, we believed that this was the perfect breed for our son.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Age of a Dog for a Child who is Afraid of Dogs?
An older, well-trained dog is often a good choice for a child who is afraid of dogs. Puppies, while cute, can be unpredictable and energetic, which might be overwhelming for a child with a fear of dogs.
How to Introduce a Dog to a Child who is Afraid of Dogs?
The introduction should be slow and controlled. Allow the child to observe the dog from a distance initially. Gradually, let the child pet the dog under supervision. It’s important to make sure that the child feels safe and in control during these interactions.
What Role do Parents Play in Helping a Child Overcome Fear of Dogs?
Parents play a crucial role. They need to be patient, understanding, and supportive. They should never force interaction between the child and the dog, but rather facilitate gradual and positive experiences.
Final Thoughts: Our Journey to Give Our Son a Dog
In the end, our journey to give our son a dog was about more than just getting a pet. It was about helping our son overcome his fear, grow as a person, and find a new friend. It was a journey filled with patience, understanding, and love. And in the end, it was absolutely worth it.
Additional FAQs
What are the signs that a child is afraid of dogs?
Signs that a child is afraid of dogs can include crying, running away, freezing in place, or clinging to a parent when a dog is present. They may also express their fear verbally or display signs of anxiety when they know they will be around dogs.
What breeds of dogs are known for being good with children?
Breeds known for being good with children include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Bulldogs, and Boxers. These breeds are known for their patience, gentleness, and playful nature. However, individual dog’s temperament can vary, so it’s important to spend time with a dog before bringing it home.
How long does it usually take for a child to overcome their fear of dogs?
The time it takes for a child to overcome their fear of dogs can vary greatly depending on the severity of the fear and the child’s individual personality. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even longer. Patience and understanding are key during this process.
Tables
| Dog Breed | Temperament | Suitability for Children |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | Intelligent, Friendly, Reliable | High |
| Labrador Retriever | Outgoing, Even Tempered, Gentle | High |
| Beagle | Amiable, Excitable, Determined | High |
| Bulldog | Docile, Willful, Friendly | High |
| Boxer | Bright, Fun-Loving, Active | High |
