my havanest toby

i just would like your input on this..i have a year old havanese i purchased from a private owner....he is the sweetest dog..loves me and my daughter but is very shy and timid around people and even growls sometimes when strangers are over and tries to pet him. i read about havanese and this is not normal behavior....once he snapped at my brother..what can i do? any suggestions? even if i try to get them to give him a treat he will take it but still not be very friendly..any input would be appreciated..thanks

forgot to mention that all the other puppies i saw while at the home of the breeder were very friendly and all over me.....toby did jump on me a few times but never quite as friendly..stayed back a little..one my friends suggested he may be the runt of the litter..what do u think?

I am certainly no expert, but I would try pushing socialization with other people, strangers, friends, etc. EVERY day and treat often. I would even get some extra special treats that you only give at that time so it stands out for him. If it still seems not to work, you might want to get a private trainer. We brought home the runt of the litter, but our breeder had taken extra care to not just let him constantly get beat up on by his siblings by taking him away from them from time to time and having him watch TV with her. As a result, he absolutely loves people! It may just take a little extra work for your guy, he'll come around though with the right training.