Your friends arrive, and your dog disappears behind the sofa or into another room. It is tempting to fetch them so everyone can see that the visitors are friendly. Leave them where they feel safe. A dog who moves away is using a quiet way to ask for distance, pulling them out can take that option away.
Before the next visit, set up a comfortable room or a gated space away from the door. Give your dog water, a resting place, and something suitable to do if they want it. Ask guests not to follow, reach under furniture, or call the dog over. Children should not enter the dog's retreat. If your dog growls, snaps, or seems unable to settle even with space, arrange a veterinary check and qualified, reward-based behavior help.
Let the visit be smaller
If your dog chooses to watch from a distance, let visitors ignore them. A friend can sit sideways and speak quietly without looking directly at the dog or extending a hand. You can reward relaxed observation if your dog is comfortable taking food, then let them return to the safe place. No greeting is required today.
In separate, short practice sessions, arrange one calm visitor at a time and keep enough distance that your dog stays relaxed. The visitor's departure can be the end of a successful session. If your dog hides sooner, freezes, or stops eating, make the next setup easier. Consider a veterinary check if this avoidance is new, pain or illness can change a dog's tolerance of people.
Some dogs will never want to mingle with every guest. A peaceful visit with the dog resting in another room is a good outcome for everyone. The visitor and doorway guide can help plan a calmer arrival routine, your dog still needs the option not to greet an
Sources: Dogs Trust: Dog aggression towards visitors - causes and what to do. Dogs Trust: Why dogs get scared or frustrated and how to help.