threshold fear

Question
Hello Susan, I wanted to update you on my golden with all his fears.  We are now walking 1 1/2 miles per day, and I found that he seems to like me using a harness with his leash. I don't know if he feels more secure with it around him or what the reason. He responds really well with commands when we meet people and or other animals. These walks have helped greatly in his socialization.  He isn't afraid when we meet others anymore.  My problem is still the doors and him not going out for anyone but me.  We've tried everything we can possibly try, and he still won't comply.  I guess this will just be a wait and see matter.  He won't approach other doors, if we stop at another house while walking.  I'm hoping he will just forget those fears one day.  I never would have thought I would have gotten him to walk on a leash as good as he does, but I know that the running  with him was the key to our success, so thanks for the advice, and if there is anymore of your magic advice with the doors.....help!  Thanks for you time. Blessings to you.

Answer
Hi Kathy,  I am so proud of your dedication and the progress you are both making. Keep up the good work. You could try making doors a positive experience by putting goodies at the threshold and let him follow his nose past them. Go slowly and reward every little move in the right direction, even if it is a lean towards the threshold. Take it in baby steps until you can put the goodie outside the door and he will reach for it, then reward and praise. Do it when he is hungry so that you are using the best timing. Keep me posted on your progress and let me know how it is going. I have other ideas, but would like you to use this one and see what happens. Thank you for your kind words and for the follow-up. You are a good and dedicated dog woman. I am proud of you. Warm Regards, Susan