Why is my 2yo so utterly petrified of dogs?

[wendylovesbob]

I grew up with dogs. Until our situation changed 2 yrs ago we always had dogs. Everyone in my family has dogs.

My 4yo loves dogs and remembers our old dog.

My 2yo is absolutely terrified of all dogs. I really cannot overstate how petrified he is. Earlier today he unexpectedly caught sight of the neighbour's fluffy little miniature toy pooch (on a lead, not near ds) and he screamed like he'd been sting by a hornet and was still doing heaving, gulping, recovery sob / breaths 45 minutes later.

I think I have done everything right. I have not especially pandered to his fear; I never refer to him as being afraid of dogs, I don't rush to remove him if I see a dog. At the same time I have never pooh-poohed his anxieties. I comfort and reassure him, and would never force him to confront his fears.

He has never had a bad experience with a dog.

Why is he so scared?

What can I do?

If he has never had a bad experience maybe it is just fear of the unknown. I wouldn't suggest you force the situation but just make sure everyone else acts normal around dogs.
You could try contacting Pets as Therapy to ask for advice.

I had similar with my DS but it was a result of my phobia. We now have a dog, start slowly hold him on your lap and show him a small calm dog, then next time you go and stroke making sure the dog cannot reach your DS be patient and slow keep things brief he needs to see nothing bad will happen.

If you want to try slower (I am pretty sure I did) try pictures on the net and talking about them, also maybe books if he likes them.

I think around that age most children go through a phase when they are terrified of everything! If I remember correctly it is supposed to be some sort of survival mechanism to stop toddlers coming to harm. He may just grow out of his fear naturally. But finding a nice calm well-bahaved dog he can get to know would be a good idea.

my friends little girl was like this around that age. her mum bought a puppy without even realising that she was frightened, and the little girl ran away screaming from a tiny 6 week old puppy. they had to get rid of it in the end as she couldnt cope with him being there. she is 4 now, and it has improved to some degree, although she still doesnt like really big dogs, or ones that bounce a lot. she came to my house about a year ago, and my friends dog was here. she was terrified at first, but sat on my lap as he wandered around. he is quite an elderly dog, really slow and not jumpy at all. she ended up falling asleep on him! she went and said hello to him once she realised he wasnt going to bounce, and it went from there. she loves him now.