Can anyone advise me as to trying to make a more confident chi?  My pup broke his leg when he was just 14 weeks old, so I think that at a crucial development stage he was having to be 'mothered' more than I would have liked.  He is now 7 months old and is very wary of strangers and cowers to the point of wanting the ground to open up and swallow him!  I am trying SO hard to show him that there is nothing to worry about, not babying him anymore etc, being dominant and showing him that I the pack leader, but it is getting SO VERY difficult to take him out for his walks, especially in new parks etc..  He is also barking when anyone passes our front door, which is not good considering we live in a built up area.  He is very good in every other way, his training is coming along great, toilet training,  sit, down, wait etc...he's even retrieving thrown toys, so I know I cant completely complain, but I am a little worried that maybe I am doing something to make the situation worse.  Can anyone advise please?

when someone comes up to your dog, ask them to not make sudden movements, and to hold there hand out (back of the hand facing your dog) dogs sniff the back of peoples hands to  see what they are like, if they are safe to go near. also ask people to use friendly body language (not crossing arms etc.) plus do not comfort your dog when they are scared.. i know its hard but you are only confirming that there is something to be scared of! good lucck

On the contrary, I wouldn't let people approach the dog at all - this can prove all too much and he make be pushed into agressive behaviour.  Let/encourage him to approach them, ask them NOT to lean over, but the crouch down if they can.  If this isn't possible elevate the dog in some way (so long as it's safe) - such as a park bench or low wall.  Try and avoid holding the dog on a tight lead and praise and reward even the tiniest move towards a stranger, ask them to avoid approaching square on to the dog, and avoid maintaining eye contact don't stress if he's reluctant at first.