my dog favors me over my husband

Question
Hi Jill,

my husband and I recently (over two months ago) rescued a lab/pointer mix, she's about 15 months old. She took an instant shine to me has become a total mommy's girl. She is a bit of a nervous dog, having been rescued from a man that kept her chained up outside with little food, water or any socialization. But she has improved in leaps and bounds since we've had her. We've trained her, socialize her and shower her with love and affection, which she is just blossoming under.
BUT, her behaviour towards my husband is very different. She is very careful around him, and slinks around like she's done something bad, or hides under the table when it's just him and her. We share doggie duties pretty much evenly, although I must admit I fawn over her when we're home. (I do give him his time with her though if that's what's happening) He is very affectionate with her and pets her whenever she allows him, which is only when I'm home. When I'm there, it's like she relaxes her guard and can show him love.
My husband is very cool about all this but I can tell he's bummed. Assuming that her previous owner was not all that nice to her, can it be that she's just nervous around men? She's ok with other men, but definately prefers women.
What can my husband do to win her over and show her that he's an ok guy?

Answer
Your dog has a conditioned fear response to men.  Happily for you, your husband is mature enough to be able to deal with this.

It will take some time (months) for this dog to warm up to your husband.  She may never fully accept (without fear) other men, but so what?  Find a female veterinarian.

Your husband must continue to be totally available to this dog (a sign of genuine acceptance) and offer her affection and treats whenever you are around (since that appears to be her criterion for approaching him.)  Eventually, she will begin to approach him freely and will begin to generalize to those times when she is alone with him.  Patience, positive reinforcement training, total emotional commitment (on both your parts) and consistent, calm, loving attitude will most likely turn this abused dog into a wonderful companion for you both.