This reminds me so much of my parents dobie Max. For a while he growled and carried on if anyone other than dad aproached him. I let him check me out on his own and I didn't act afraid of him (although with his big teeth it was kind of hard!) Now we are good pals, and he always bugs me to pet him whenever I visit! It takes time and patence, and I applaud your husband for trying to work things out instead of just giving poor Buddy away.