[Judi W]

Yes, it does sound like you have a fearful pup. Whether this is a stage or part of his character, I certainly don't know, but I'd like to offer a bit of advice. Because he is a fearful pup, when people want to greet him and he is in your arms, he feels trapped and that is why he is responding with aggression. Put him on the ground and let him work it out on his own. That way he can retreat if he chooses or move forward at his own pace. A fearful animal that is cornered and feels trapped is left with no other choice in their frightened minds but attack. When the people then jump back or move away, this programs his response into his mind that it works well for him when he is uncomfortable and he will continue that response. It is your job to protect him from being pushed into a situation where he is going to try to scare people away. That means you will need to tell people when you see he is worried, that they should just leave him be or attempt to coax him forward, but they should not push in on him. Make sure you always greet people in a friendly manner so he can take a clue from your attitude, but let him have four on the floor.