June 30, 2026, 7:12 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Not everyone likes dogs–some are even afraid of them. It’s all the more surprising that these individuals are often approached by dogs more frequently. Many dog owners know the situation: Their own dog runs up to a neighbor or friend who actually prefers to keep their distance from dogs. This is no coincidence. Why dogs exhibit this behavior and what’s behind it is explained by dog trainer and canine behavior expert Katharina Marioth in an interview with PETBOOK.
“The Dog Feels Invited”
PETBOOK: Katharina, why do dogs often feel drawn to people who don’t like animals or are even afraid of dogs?
Katharina Marioth: “It’s due to our body language. People who are afraid watch dogs very closely. They stare at them to control the situation–similar to how one might with spiders when afraid. For the dog, this means: ‘You’re addressing me, you want contact.’ The dog feels invited.”
So from a dog’s perspective, is eye contact more of an invitation than a warning signal?“Exactly. Dogs interpret our eye contact as initiating a conversation. If we then also back away or make ourselves small–perhaps out of insecurity–the dog doesn’t see this as a defense but as an invitation: ‘Ah, someone wants contact.’”
Also interesting: Why cats often approach people who don’t like them
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“Dogs Can Actually Smell Our Fear”
What can someone who is afraid of dogs do to attract less attention?
“Ideally, avoid eye contact and present yourself a bit more upright and confident. If you become fidgety, breathe hectically, raise your hands, or generally show stress, you’re sending additional body language signals–which dogs interpret not as fear but as emotional excitement or a call for help. And then they come even closer to ‘comfort’ you.”
It’s often said that dogs can smell fear or stress. Is that true?
“Yes, it’s scientifically proven. Dogs can perceive hormonal changes–such as cortisol or adrenaline. And they can do so in the tiniest concentrations, long before we show physical signs of stress ourselves. This is no longer body language but an olfactory process. Dogs can actually smell our fear.”
Someone Is Afraid of Dogs? Here’s How to Act as an Owner
Even if you think your dog is wonderful and assure others, “He won’t hurt you”–some people are afraid of dogs. As a dog owner, you must respect that. To prevent uncomfortable situations, you shouldn’t automatically allow your dog to run up to everyone. Ask first if contact is desired.
If it’s known that neighbors or family members are afraid of the dog, keep him on a leash and initially prevent contact. This should only occur when:
- the person who is afraid wants it themselves, and
- the dog is in a calm, relaxed state.