Friends dog is afraid of me.

Question
Kelsey is a 3-4 year old standard poodle.  He belongs to my friends Jeanie and Jan, who I house/dog sit for when they are away.  I typically housesit for them twice a year.  At around 1 1.2 years old Kelsey started to be afraid of me and would not come to me, and will not come in the house when I (try) let him and the other dogs in.  This is a problem as the other dogs (2 - a collie mix and a toy poodle) come in and he is left outside all night.  The other night I had friends over and he went to them fine, no problem.  He slept in the bedroom with the other dogs carefully avoiding me.  Kelsey has never been socialized with people or dogs.  The only contact he has with the outside world is when he gets groomed or goes to the vet.  The collie was an adult dog when they got her and well socialized.  Nellie the toy gets taken along when Jeanie goes anywhere so has be somewhat socialized.  But why only me?  He is not afraid of anyone else.  Is it because he associates me being there with his people being gone?  What can I do to help alleviate his fear of me?

Answer
Hi Joy, You did not mention whether Kelsey is neutered or not. At about a year and a half, they reach maturity, sometimes sooner, and will begin to establish dominance. Kelsey needs to know that you are the pack leader in his owner's absence. I would highly recommend that you take him on walks at the heel on a lead. This will help him understand that you are in control and will tell him when he can and cannot "take a break". By getting him to mind you on the lead, it will make it much better when you are left to tend to him. Talk to his owners about being able to take him for walks at the heel on the lead (with a slip collar up high), so that he no longer acts fearful towards you and it will make it easier when you dog sit for them. I am sure that they will understand and be glad to let you exercise their dog's mind and body. Leave me some feedback and let me know how this goes for you. Thank you for writing. Warm Regards, Susan