New Growling Behavior With Strangers In The House

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

DeeDee and Sheila posted this question in the comments section.  I'm thinking that they'll get much more input and help if we make it a separate discussion.

This behavior has come on slowly but I am noticing it more and more. I hate to admit it but Sheila has started growling at people when they come in the house.  These are strangers but I notice she is getting more and more grumpy/scared around people.  I socialize her ALOT, she goes with me places, etc.  I put her on a leash now to attach her to me when cleaning people, repairmen, etc. come.  I say NO or SHHT (our naughty sound).  If I isolate her from me, like put her in the bedroom she barks and barks.  Help.  My sweetheart is turning into a little snot!!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Guinness tries the "growling thing" every now and then too.  I just don't accept it.  At the first sign of a growl, he gets a really firm verbal correction and I put him right into a down/stay.  I keep him there until I see that his body language has relaxed and then I release him.  That's usually enough to put a stop to it.  DeeDee I have a hard time picturing that adorable little Sheila growling at strangers....LOL.

[BG and Gavin]

Sheila you naughty girl!  Has anything changed lately in your household that may have triggered this?  If it were me, I think I would consult with a trainer as you certainly want to nip this behaviour in the bud.  Sounds like something new is causing a fear based reaction.

[Pat and Traveler]

I don't have any advice, but I was trying out the 'naughty sound,' and it kept coming out as something I'm not sure I'd be saying loudly to repairmen, etc.  :)

[Cathy w/Shiloh~Cody]

I am interested in suggestions-my dog will be 2 in Sept, and is very socialized.

We regularly go to stores and walk daily, he is great with people and other dogs. Never a growl.  But.. lately,when someone comes thru our front door his reaction is to bark and growl, its almost like he is "near sighted"- cause he KNOWS  the people, Then a second later he is wagging and loving all over them. I correct him but will now add the down/stay as suggested. Thanks for any ideas!