fear of strangers

Question
I have a seven month old lab that is acting very strange when a stranger comes to our house.She will run up to them with her hackles up,barking and nipping at them.She has never bit but yesterday did have a hold of our friends hand softly, didn't break the skin.She will jump backwards and act very fearful.I dont know what to do.Is it too late for her?

Answer
While she may never do as well as a properly socialized dog, you can improve things.  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

As leader, make a show of greeting people warmly, shake hands, hug, whatever meets human standards.  Don't let it stress you or coddle her.  Both send the wrong message.  Have them avoid looking her in the eye or showing their teeth by smiling.  Have treats for them to give her.