My dog seems to be afraid of me all of a sudden

Question
I got my female dog from a shelter about 3 years ago. She has been nothing but sweet and obedient. About 4 months ago
she has been acting afraid to come to me and does not like sitting with me on the couch anymore she always has that afraid look in her eyes.  She seems to act more afraid of me in the evening. When I get home from work she is all over me with all kinds of affection. I am the one who usually feeds her, walks her and diciplines her.  I have never hit her or have been mean to her.

Answer
That's pretty unusual, and I can only make some suggestions which may or may not be correct. Was she an adult when you got her? Some dogs don't reach emotional maturity until around three - at which time they may be less interested in strangers, and playing with other dogs - but shouldn't effect their relation with a loving primary caretaker. When I see a sudden behavioral change in an adult dog I'm often thinking there is something going on physically. Has she recently had vaccinations - especially has she recently had a rabies shot? If so, she may be suffering from vaccinosis, which is a reaction to that shot. I'd be talking to a holistic vet about it. Other thoughts would be a full physical exam to make sure she's not in pain, bloodwork including a full thyroid panel and a tick disease panel, since both low thyroid and ehrlichia or lymes disease (carried by ticks) can cause changes in behavior. Since you mention that she seems more worried in the evening, I'd also consider taking her to a veterinary opthalmologist who can do a more thorough eye exam than your regular vet. If she has a developing eye problem like PRA, lower light would be more troublesome for her than full daylight. Another thought is - is there anything new going on with you, healthwise? Any new meds you are on? New perfume or lotion? Some dogs can react quite strongly to OUR body chemistry. If none of that turns out to be the problem, I'd find a really good behaviorist or trainer (get references) who may be able to watch interactions between you and her and get some clues for you from that. Good luck. Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com