Why is my four year old afraid of the dog

eryone in my family love dogs. But when we go over to my brothers house, my four year old little girl gets scared out of her mind. My brother has a 260 pound English mastiff, the dog is really sweet. But for some reason my little girl doesn’t want to be anywhere near the dog. From day one, she has just been terrified of the dog, she was really hesitant to meet the dog the first time, she did it. But then I noticed that she was afraid.

why is this? We have a border collie at home and they get along and play together just fine. When my brothers dog starts barking or stands up, or just walks near her, my daughter will run to me wanting to be picked up. She doesn’t even want to be in the same room as the dog, even when I’m holding her In my arms, she doesn’t want me to go anywhere near him.

of course I respect my daughter and I make sure she feels safe. But why is she like this?

My brothers dog has done nothing wrong. Why is she acting so scared of him? Like I said we have a border collie at home and they play together.

I’m new to parenting, is my kiddo doing this on purpose because she wants attention? Why is she acting this way? Because I know she loves animals.

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broxi3781 · 56-60, F

Perhaps she saw a similiar dog in a film or even on the news. Perhaps he has unintentionally hurt her in some way, or maybe it is just that he is so big. Or maybe she has heard him bark and it would sound very different to your dog.

Since she is four, i am assuming you can talk about it, ask her why the dog frightens her, but please dont force the issue. Give her time.

I would also suggest searching for books and films which have dogs that look similar that are good and friendly.

It might also help if your brother can teach the dog tricks.

I have Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Well , at the moment i only have one , but i usually keep two, and i always have black or very dark brindle dogs, which some people find more intimidating for some reason. As if a yellow or white dog couldnt bite every bite as easily as a dark coloured one.

But i have found that by teaching the dogs a few tricks, as well as basic good behaviour, many children and even adults who normally dont like such dogs often warm up to them. It breaks the ice and shows them in a different light. Children especially love getting in on the game, giving the dog commands and watching them do tricks. Plus they can always tell the dog to sit if it is coming too close. This gives the child a sense of control. Even dressing the dog up in silly outfits can help a child get over their fears.