Do you have a child that is afraid of dogs?

[zhouhua00]

 OK, this is my first post on the live journal. And I hope I can get a few answers.

I know many readers here are mothers. So let me tell you something that bothers me.

My son Joey, who is seven-year-old, is very afraid of dogs.

When he was born in 2003, we had a big hybrid German Shepard dog at home. Joey had absolute so problem with that, actually

Comments

You are spot on, Lureen!

[zhouhua00]

Hi Lureen,

Thank you very much for the message!

You see, I kept on asking him 'why are you afraid of dogs?' and he kept on replying 'dogs scare me' but no details, it doesn't matter how many times I explain it is a nice dog, it won't bite, bla bla bla ...It is getting pretty frustrating.

I think you are spot on the size of the dog. Thank you! Now I think about it, the several occasions Joey were scared by little, fast moving, and barking dogs. My in-laws have a gentle big dog who is very quiet and Joey never had any problem with it (that dog died two years ago as well.)

Now I can see from Joey's eyes that a little but fast, perhaps even a little fierce dog, who kept on barking and showing his white sharp teeth, could be pretty scary. I had difficulty understanding what he is scared of, but now I can see. That also explains why he never have trouble with big but quiet dogs who never show their teeth.

I have to admit I am a little embarrassed that Joey is afraid of dog, thinking he is too old for that. Especially when he showed so much fear in front of his peers, I worry that they would laugh at him. But now I can see why he is scared and that makes me feel a lot better.

Thanks again Lureen, I really appreciate it!

Hua

Re: You are spot on, Lureen!

[zhouhua00]

You are quite right, Lureen, the important things are Joey and his feelings, all other things are not important. Actually, I have heard nothing but genuine concerns and care about this issue.

I took Joey to the library and with the help of some very kind librarian found a bunch of children's books about lovely and loyal dogs. I am going to read them to him this week, and see if that helps! I have also ordered several nice dog movies - HealthyLuv gave me a list - and we will see how that works out as well! LOL!

Thanks again Lureen you are a real friend!

Hua