4 min learnNew DelhiJul 19, 2026 02:00 PM IST
Canine are sometimes referred to as “man’s greatest buddy”, but many individuals instinctively cross the highway, freeze, or panic when one approaches. Curiously, this concern is way extra widespread than a concern of cats, despite the fact that each are among the many world’s hottest pets.
So why do canines evoke stronger concern? Dr Vinod Sharma, Director & Head Veterinarian, says the distinction lies largely in notion, expertise and behavior, not within the animals themselves.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to.
Why canines appear scarier than cats
Whereas each canines and cats can chunk or scratch, individuals usually understand canines as a larger menace. “Individuals are extra typically afraid of canines as a result of canines are normally bigger, stronger and extra seen in public areas. The potential for bites or critical damage feels a lot larger than with cats,” says Dr Sharma.
He explains that concern is usually discovered somewhat than instinctive. “Previous dangerous experiences, tales shared by members of the family and frequent information experiences about canine assaults reinforce this concern. So, most often, it’s about notion and studying, not as a result of canines are inherently extra harmful or ‘worse’ than cats.”
Why are individuals extra frightened of canines? (Picture: Magnific)
Concern isn’t the identical as hating animals
Individuals who keep away from canines are sometimes labelled as “animal haters.” Nevertheless, Dr Sharma says this assumption is inaccurate. “Being frightened of canines is normally a concern response and, in some instances, a real phobia. It shouldn’t be confused with hatred of animals.”
He explains {that a} real phobia goes far past discomfort. “A phobia usually includes intense nervousness, bodily signs corresponding to a racing coronary heart, sweating, shaking or crying, and chronic avoidance that interferes with every day life.”
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Against this, merely disliking canines seems to be very completely different. “Somebody who merely doesn’t like canines might favor to maintain their distance, however they don’t expertise overwhelming panic or fixed fear.”
The canine indicators many individuals misunderstand
Dr Sharma says a number of widespread behaviours are regularly misunderstood.
1. A wagging tail doesn’t all the time imply a pleasant canine
“Folks typically assume each wagging tail means the canine is blissful. However a excessive, stiff and quick wag can really point out heightened arousal or pressure somewhat than friendliness.”
2. Lip licking or yawning can sign stress
Canine talk discomfort in refined methods. “Lip licking, yawning and searching away are sometimes calming or stress indicators. Many individuals mistake these behaviours as signs that a dog is relaxed or being cute.”
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3. A nonetheless canine isn’t all the time a relaxed canine
Generally, the largest warning signal is a scarcity of motion. “When a canine all of a sudden freezes, has a stiff physique and maintains a hard and fast stare, it’s typically a warning sign—not an indication that the canine is quietly standing.”
Dr Sharma believes training is without doubt one of the greatest methods to scale back pointless concern whereas additionally selling safer interactions. Studying how canines talk, respecting their private area and avoiding unfamiliar animals until invited by the owner can help people feel more confident.
On the identical time, he stresses that individuals shouldn’t be judged for being fearful. “Concern of canines is normally formed by expertise and notion. It isn’t a mirrored image of somebody’s emotions towards animals.”
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to.
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