Child with fear of dogs

Video: Little Kid Scared of Friendly Dog





Dog sitting on the floor with a child

Video: Chow Chow: Dogs Afraid of Kids

Hi Cesar,

My niece Rea, age 10, is very fearful of dogs. She had a small dog nip her where she was raised in the Philippines and she never got over it.

She`s been here about a year and one-half with her mom. We watch your program together, we`ve been to the animal shelter, we`ve had an uneven visit with a friend`s small dogs. In theory Rea says she`s not afraid anymore, but when faced with the reality of even just a friendly sniffing dog, she freezes, yells and generally emits fear for a hundred yards around her.

Related: How to get your neighbors to not be afraid of your dog

Rea wants to improve but we don`t know how to help her. Do you have any classes for humans at your center or suggestions? We`d be happy to come to your center. By the way, her mom is also a little fearful, although she does not have as obvious a reaction as Rea. Also, Rea and her mom are going back to the Philippines for a visit. Rea will be facing the same dog again and we would like her to have confidence in dealing with the situation. She`s a good kid, smart, a good athlete. She`s just a little freaked out in this area. Thanks in advance.

- Sharon

Cesar Millan`s answer:

Hi Rea, I want you to know that we are supporting your courage! I would recommend that you practice no touch, no talk, and no eye contact when meeting a dog, and to really believe that nothing bad is going to happen. Focus on that belief. Keep it in your mind at all times when you`re with the dog.

Let`s try this exercise: If you were not afraid, what would you like to do with a dog? If you loved a dog, how would you like to share that love with your dog? If you could take a dog for a walk, where would you take him? And if you were the best dog trainer in the world, what would you teach your dog? Focus on those positive scenarios when you`re meeting the dog.

In the meantime, we`re going to send you a signed photograph and a t-shirt. I want you to carry them with you every time you`re about to share your courage with the canine world.

Be the pack leader, Rea! I know you can do it!

Stay calm and assertive,
Cesar Millan

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