Fear of Dogs in Children | Helping Kids Build Confidence Around Dogs

Witnessing your child feel frightened around dogs can be difficult. Whether they're crossing the street to avoid a dog, becoming upset when a dog approaches, or missing out on everyday activities, a fear of dogs can have a real impact on their confidence and quality of life. 

The good encouraging news is that fear can be overcome.

This specialised, child-centred program helps children gradually build confidence around dogs in a safe, supportive, and positive way. Working at your child's pace, we'll help them understand dog behaviour, develop practical coping strategies, and replace fear with confidence—without ever forcing interaction before they're ready.

Based on the internationally recognized Kids Around Dogs® (KAD) protocol the program combines education, gradual exposure, and positive experiences to help children to feel more comfortable and in control around dogs.

How the Program Works

Every child is unique, so the program is tailored to their individual needs and progresses at a pace they're comfortable with.

The program consists of 10 individual sessions, each lasting 15–20 minutes:

7 online sessions via Zoom

3 in-person sessions where your child will meet Jazz, my calm Border Collie cross, who plays an special role in helping children build positive experiences around dogs. There is never any pressure to interact with a dog. Your child remains in control throughout the entire program, and every step is guided by their comfort and confidence.

Small Steps, Big Confidence

Knowledge is empowering. The more children understand about dogs, the more confident they become.

Just as we use positive reinforcement to help dogs learn, we use encouragement, achievable goals, and positive experiences to help children learn too.

After each session, your child will receive a simple activity to complete before the next session. These small tasks help reinforce what they've learned and encourage steady progress at a pace that's right for them.

Together, you'll establish a personalised reward system to celebrate your child's achievements. Rewards are chosen by you and your child and don't have to cost a thing —they might be extra screen time, choosing the family movie, a trip to the park, a favourite dessert, or a sleepover with a friend.

The goal isn't perfection. It's about celebrating every success, building confidence one step at a time, and helping your child discover that they can feel safe and comfortable around dogs.

Supporting the Whole Family

Parents play an important role throughout the program. You'll receive guidance and practical strategies to support your child between sessions, celebrate their progress, and help them continue building confidence in everyday situations.

My goal is for your child to feel empowered, for you to feel supported, and for your family to have the confidence around dogs once again.