I would be grateful if anyone has some advice on this problem. Our male golden retriever is 9 yrs old and over the last 2-3 years he has developed a real phobia of the vets - not so suprising since unpleasant things happen whenever he goes there. However, this has extended to us being unable to examine him at home if he has any injuries. He growls and bares his teeth if he even sees you focusing in on the sore area and now we have to muzzle him to examine anything properly. This is not only stressful for him but also for us. We have consulted a behaviourist and have improved his behaviour with us but he turns into this snarling monster at the vets. At present he has a nasty skin infection on his face and unfortunately bit a neighbour who was simply going to stroke him but passed her hand near the area. We now feel we have to muzzle him whenever he is out. He is a lovely dog apart from this!

Hi,
That's such a shame for him. I have a goldie as well, he's only 6 - but I can't imagine, him snarling at anyone. Obviously, your dog is frightened of having this area touched by anyone, and is only trying to protect himself. In my opinion!! (if that's tosh, someone will be along to tell you shortly!! :)
I think it's probably wiser to muzzle him, as you don't want him to bite anyone, whether he means it or not.
Does he behave like this only at the vets, what about when you are out for a walk with him? Does he tolerate any one person more than someone else? I had a friend, who's dog absolutely hated the vet, for no apparent reason, and would turn into a different dog as soon as she took her in the door, but she and the vet persevered, and the dog eventually overcame her fear. You've came to the right place for advice, I
hope you'r able to help him,
Sharon