Alone Dark

Alone Dark
Do kids who are afraid to stay home alone & the dark feel less afraid or not afraid with a protective dog?

Share your experiences as a child or your talk about your child.

As a kid I had generalized anxiety disorder that I eventually grew out of but I was afraid to be at home alone when it was too quiet or rainy. I think the decreased visibility or being more sensitive to little creaks got me edgy. Anyway, I had 2 labradors and they made me feel much better. Even the presence of my cats helped me a lot since it was just another life in the room. Cats and dogs also know if something is wrong so I would look to them to see if they were alarmed, if they stayed relaxed I knew there was nothing to be afraid of.
Now my fiance is a police officer. He is gone for 12 hour shifts 6-6 most of the time nights. I have three dogs- one english mastiff, 1 50-50 english mastiff/Pit bull and one pit bull. You better be certain I don't fear anyone breaking into my house! No one can even walk into my neighbor's house without them letting me know about it! Going to bed is the worst but I keep 2 of them out to sleep on the bed with me and I sleep very soundly now. Dogs are extremely smart and learn the movement sounds of people who are "okay." My guys know the sounds of police radio beeps, my fiance's walk- in police boots and sneakers, and when to expect him to be home. If there's an inconsistency my Mastiff will sit straight up on the end of my bed and growl but when she sees her daddy it's all tongue and tail again. I would pity the thief that walks into my room late at night!

So in sum, yes! Get our kid a dog because it will help them out. Even if they aren't protective- just "there" it'll be a comfort.