I’ve lived with Venus long enough to know that he isn’t an easy dog to approach.

He’s intense. Watchful. Curious in ways that can feel overwhelming if you don’t understand him. When someone new comes close, he often shows his teeth — not always to intimidate, and not always to invite either. Even after four years with him, I’ll admit it’s confusing sometimes.

Now imagine meeting a dog like that when you’re already scared of dogs.

That was Nishita.

She’s gentle, soft-spoken, and has never grown up with pets. Dogs made her nervous long before Venus entered the picture. During the two years we were dating, she met him a handful of times — always briefly, always cautiously. Venus, being Venus, didn’t make it easy.

Then we got married.

And suddenly, avoiding each other wasn’t an option anymore.

No Grand Plan, Just Patience

There was never a conversation about “fixing” her fear or “training” Venus to like her. We didn’t set goals or timelines. We just let things unfold slowly.

At first, she would join us on walks and stay a little away from him. Not scared enough to run, but not close enough to feel exposed. Over time, that distance began to shrink. A few steps closer. Then a few more.

Weeks later, she started holding his leash — briefly at first, then for longer stretches. Venus noticed. He always does.

Feeding came next. Treats offered from afar. No pressure. No expectation. Just quiet consistency.

Weeks Without Touch

For over a month — maybe closer to six weeks — she still couldn’t pet him.

And yet, she kept trying.

Not in a pushy way. Not in a “today has to be the day” way.

Just small attempts, followed by stepping back when it felt like too much. I don’t think she even realised how patient she was being.

Venus never rushed her either.

When Trust Finally Showed Up

The first time she touched him, it was brief and almost accidental. A moment more than an action.

But from there, something shifted.

Today, two months later, Venus waits for her to talk to him. He looks to her for treats. He settles when she’s around. And most days, he waits by the door around the time she comes home from work.

Watching that change has been one of the quietest joys in our house.

What This Taught Me

I’ve spent years trying to understand Venus — his energy, his boundaries, his contradictions. But this experience taught me something I didn’t expect.

Trust isn’t built by confidence.

It’s built by consistency.

Nishita didn’t try to conquer her fear. She respected it. And in doing so, she respected Venus too. There was no forcing affection, no demanding reassurance, no shortcuts.

Just presence.

A Thought for Anyone Standing at the Edge

If you’re scared of dogs — or if your dog is slow to trust — know this: relationships don’t need to be loud or fast to be real.

Sometimes, the strongest bonds are built quietly.
One walk at a time.
One step closer.
One moment of courage — from both sides.