We have a rescued dog that we got as a 5 week old puppy along with his brother. He is now almost a year old. Unfortunately, we were unable to save his brother and he passed away. We have never been mean to this dog, ever. He seemed very happy and wonderful as a little pup. However, as he has grown he has become frightened of everyone. I have tried and tried to help him. If someone comes to the house he runs and hides behind my chair and growls. He's scared! He is a wonderful dog but he just seems terrified of anything new. Any suggestions??

What was his socialization like as a puppy? Was he introduced to new people, places, things? If so, how did he react back then?

I have tried and tried to help him.

Can you describe how you have gone about working on this issue so far? What kinds of things have you tried?

How does he react outside of the house?

Would you consider hiring a behaviorist to help you with him?

Change your behaviour towards him. Don't make too much of a fuss when he is scared.
He won't see it as reassurance, you will just reinforce the fact that it is OK to be scared.

When he comes out make you you reward him with a good bit of fuss, but not over the top.