[marley2007]

We just adopted a 9 month? male boxer from county adoption center. He is a good dog at home. But, he growls at men and sits by me, my husband or sons when one comes in our house.
He got off his leash a few nights ago on his first walk and ran towards the house when a man approached us to cross the street. This is a neighborhood. Nothing busy.

We figure he was abused by a male. It is just amazing to us that every male that comes around he growls and shakes. He is fine with husband and our teenage boys.

Does anyone think this can change? I'm sure I could try a trainer.

[Curbside Prophet]

It depends on what your definition of *change* is. You can help your dog be less reactive towards men, however, there's no way to tell with certainty if the dog actually accepts men. You should still seek the help of a professional because you do want teach your dog to deal with being around men...the help could be a life saver.

[cshellenberger]

It sounds like fear. Here are some sources for finding a qualified trainer/behaviorist. Be sure the person you select uses positive reenforcement methods as they tend to work best for fear related behaviors.

http://www.iaabc.org/
http://www.apdt.com/