shy dog

Question
Hi Labman,

I have a 9 month old spayed female yorkie who is very reserved when i take her out. I thought i had done a decent job socializing her but apparently i haven't.  I exposed her to lots of different people and experiences.  She has received nothing but lots of love.  She completed her puppy kindergarten class & learned all her commands quickly; however, it took her several weeks before accepting a treat from the trainer.  I am a bit concerned that I haven't done my part in promoting her confidence in others.  At times she is timid and frightened.
Can you give me some advice on what I can do to improve this?  Is this something that has to do with her personality or is it lack of socialization?  I have enrolled her in an advanced obedience class but I am not sure this will help.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can give.  

Answer
Few people understand the importance of socialization as well as you do.  Were you able to start before she was 12 weeks old?  That is very important with some dogs.  If not, it is difficult to make up for it later.  She may never be completely comfortable around strangers.  Keep up what you ar doing.  Try to discourage people from showing their teeth by smiling and making eye contact.  See to it they keep their hands away from her head.  It will take a lot of work, bu you should at least be able to make some improvement.