Cynophobia or more commonly known as a fear of dogs is a phobia that a few people suffer from. As with all phobias the fear of dogs is hard to overcome and as with all fears you have to try and get past it. Getting over this phobia will totally depend on how ingrained that fear is. Whether you suffer from it due to an incident in childhood or it is a newly formed phobia. There are ways to overcome this phobia but it will take time and determination. Here are a few suggestions on how to overcome a fear of dogs.
There are behavior specialists that you can see if your fear is great but for most people they do not require this form of treatment and can do things to help themselves with the phobia they have. If you are one of those people that have a fear of dogs but think you can handle the situation here are some ideas that may help you.
Start by looking at pictures of dogs in magazines. Do this on a daily bases until you become comfortable looking at the dogs. Once you have this under control turn to the internet and look at pictures of dogs on a web site. The SPCA would be a great start and could prove interesting with the stories that come along with the dogs that are up for adoption. You may start to see some dogs in a different light.
If you get to a point that you feel comfortable looking at the pictures of dogs on the internet try looking at one of the many videos that show dogs moving. If this is too much for you at first you can stop and start again at another time. Work at your own pace and with each step forward make sure you are comfortable before moving on to another step. Just remember the dog you are watching moving around cannot get close to you and you are safe in your home.
Once you have conquered these fears you are ready to try the real thing. The next time you are out for a walk and see a dog coming down your sidewalk on a leash try staying on the same sidewalk while he passes. Ten chances to one the dog will totally ignore you and walk on by with his owner. Repeat this exercise as often as you can until you feel very comfortable passing dogs.
Visit one of the shelters for animals. Explain to the staff the phobia you have and they will gladly help you to overcome it. Start out by visiting the cats if you like. By doing this you will hear many dogs barking in the background but do not fear these dogs are kept in crates. When you feel comfortable with this situation ask if you can see the smallest puppy they have. Once you look at this puppy your heart will melt and your fears will recede. How could they not when you see that small ball of fur with his trusting eyes looking at you.
Phobias can become a thing of the past and even if you make it to tolerating a dog on a sidewalk it was well worth the effort. Give yourself a pat on the back and smile you have finally found out how to overcome a fear of dogs.
