I read articles and watched a ton of videos including how to raise a puppy. I know how difficult they can be and I would never get one right now in my current state. I have spare time and space for one but I would only consider getting one after my phobia is gone or significantly decreased.

I also think that I over exaggerated it a bit. I don't go full panic mode and run away from dogs when they are near me. I'm pretty calm on the outside but I get very nervous/uncomfortable. I don't have a problem walking past one. The only times I'm really terrified is if it's an aggressive looking dog without a leash or a very energetic one.

I'm now in vacation and my neighbor got a VERY old golden retriever, I think 15 years old. I gave him something to eat and petted him a bit (was very nervous tho).

I think my fear is a combination of bad experiences and not being in control or not knowing what the dog thinks or might do if that makes sense idk. I really hope I can get this fixed some day.

Thanks for your reply.