The term for a fear of dogs is "cynophobia." This specific phobia can stem from a traumatic experience involving dogs or a general fear of animals. Individuals suffering from cynophobia may experience panic attacks, anxiety, or other symptoms when encountering dogs or even thinking about them. The severity of the phobia can vary; for some, it might impede daily activities, while others might only feel discomfort. Treatment options often include therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals challenge and change their negative thoughts and behaviors related to dogs, and exposure therapy to gradually confront their fears.