Scared/Timid Beagle

Question
My beagles is 1 1/2 yrs. old. I've had her since she was 8wks. She just recently started becoming very scared of other people and somewhat timid. Even toward people that she knows. Can you tell me why something like this would have started in her behavior and what I can do to not have her be scared.  It seems to be more towards men. Maybe because she lives with me and my roommate and we are both females.  But this behavior just started with her backing up from people and not trusting anyone. Please help. Thank you.

Answer
Hi,thanks for writing. This is certainly curious behavior if she has never acted this way before. It would normally signify prior abuse but you have had her since she was a baby. Is she left outside at all alone when you are not home? Could a delivery person or gardner or someone have spooked her or been mean to her? Was there another dog with a man some time that bothered her? Something has obviously happened, figuring it out is the key. That said you may never be able to so I would try to get some male friends to give her treats and show her affection to try and readjust her fear. Whatever you do don't coddle her when she is in a state of fear, it will just reinforce that it is ok and a way to get attention from you. I don't really have a solid answer for you because we don't know yet what the precipitating event was. You may end up needing a trainer to come do a few session with her if this persists or gets worse.