Lab agression

Question
I have a male black lab, just over a year. He has a wonderful disposition and
is incredibly loving. He's beautiful kennel trained and it serves as his safe
area. In the last few months, he's started taking treats into the kennel to eat,
but if anyone comes near the kennel he growls. I'm not sure how to approach
the problem as I feel uncomfortable sticking body parts in the kennel when
he's growling. He's never bitten, never snapped and is not aggressive or
growly in any other situations. He loves other dogs and people, and used to
be quite proud of his treats and would want to "share" with the family. Have a
I created a monster by making him feel so secure in his kennel and how do I
nip this in the bud before it becomes a biting problem?

Answer
It is quite obvious he believes he is in charge.  Often as they mature, dopgs will take over the leadership position.  The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts. Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog. Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones. You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/ For more on being top dog, see http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm

This may be difficult enough that you have to try a private trainer.