[QuickSilver]

There are two reasons your dog would run from you: either he's scared, or he's playing. If his tail is down, he's scared. If it's up, he's playing.

Other posters are right that bending directly over your dog can be intimidating. The classic no-threat pose is kneeling on the ground next to your dog, with one knee on the ground. Keep your hands close to your body and do not look directly at him.

Otherwise, teach your dog to come to you with treats. Show him a treat in your hand and say "Come" in a high, excited voice. Let him approach you and get the treat.

A trainer I know told me a (very) little animal training joke:

Q: How should do you approach a nervous dog?
A: You shouldn't.


Okay, not that funny, but illustrates the idea that your dog will be more comfortable if you let him come check you out.

Many trainers say that you should not call your dog to you if you are going to do something the dog considers unpleasant, like a bath. This is because you want your dog to come 100% of the time when called.