Cinophobia, How To Overcome The Fear Of Dogs

Maybe you didn’t know that there are many people who suffer from cynophobia. It is a human phobia that stems from the dog’s wild hunter heritage, which produces the fear of being bitten or attacked. It should not be underestimated and often causes panic and anxiety attacks in those who suffer from it. Do you think that simply seeing a dog pass produces a general state of fear and discomfort. In this article we will see the most effective causes, symptoms and treatments to combat cynophobia.

Who suffers from cynophobia?

The first mistake not to make is to consider the simple fear of ‘dangerous dogs’ as cynophobia. On the contrary, this problem has its own recognizable characteristics. There are a number of symptoms that will identify the person suffering from this phobia.

The following list briefly summarizes some of the more common symptoms:

• The fear of any dog is intense and disproportionate.
• Everyday situations where it is possible to interact with a dog are avoided.
• It is an irrational fear, which lacks a logical explanation.
• The terror becomes almost unbearable.
• The person is unable to control himself before this fear.
• He suffers a lot when he sees or approaches a dog.
• Symptoms of physical discomfort  such as nausea, sweating and tachycardia occur .
• Dizziness and muscle weakness may occur.
• The person feels the need to flee as far as possible.
• Panic or anxiety attacks occur when you are simply close to a dog.

These are the clearest symptoms of cynophobia. Generally, people suffering from this problem know how to identify it. There are currently many treatments against this unpleasant psychological condition. There are also many specialized professionals who can deal with the different cases, which affect many adults and even children.

Treatments to cure cynophobia

Did you know that millions of people around the world suffer from cynophobia? This is perhaps the reason why medicine has long been developing different therapies to treat this disease. Depending on the person’s profile, the therapist will recommend the appropriate treatment for them. The results may take a long time to arrive, depending on the conditions, but they are  definitive and will allow you to experience the relationship with these fantastic animals in a better way.

1. Gradual exposure therapy

It is a treatment that has given excellent results. Basically, it consists of bringing the person closer to a dog. This can be real or using images. The goal is to try to gradually reduce the patient’s anxiety. Furthermore, with a more gradual approach to the animal, the brain will understand that the “danger” is not real. Usually, after a few sessions, the pathology disappears.

2. Relaxation techniques

It is another effective treatment against cynophobia. Techniques such as yoga or meditation are used . Through these moments of relaxation, it is possible to calm the person’s anxiety. In general, these techniques are applied before the gradual exposure treatment. This way, the patient will find it much easier to relate to dogs.

3. Behavioral-cognitive therapy

Through this therapy we try to change the patient’s behavioral patterns. In this way, it will be possible to isolate real and unreal ideas. Cynophobia generates an altered perception of reality and danger. Behavioral-cognitive therapy will help make the person aware. Thus, the emotions will be deciphered in a more real way. Eventually, the patient will realize that his fear is not justified.

4. Simulated contact via virtual reality

Technology is advancing by leaps and bounds. Taking advantage of virtual reality, we try to simulate experiences and sensations by eliminating every slightest nuance of danger. Once the 3D glasses are put on, the patient will perceive certain situations. Very realistic images will be generated, as if it were really dealing with a real dog.

5. Pharmacological treatment

There are drugs that help fight cynophobia. In general, they have a calming function and help reduce anxiety. This type of treatment is applied in patients who have other phobias besides the fear of dogs. In any case, drug treatment will be considered as a last resort. It is always better to take the psychological route first.

There are many ways to treat cynophobia. In general, the therapist will recommend the appropriate treatment based on the contingent case. This will be done taking into account the intensity of the condition and the person’s profile. Although it is not a serious disease, such a phobia can cause serious problems.

People suffering from cynophobia should not be forced into contact with dogs. The pathology is serious and must be respected. Once the problem has been identified, the advice is to go immediately to a specialist who will help you check for the presence of a real phobia, indicating all the steps to overcome it effectively and definitively.

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