First Labradoodle Rescue - Need Advice

[Diesel&Red]

Hey there, my name is Janelle and I'm pretty new here.
I just rescued my first labradoodle last week and am the proud owner of this beautiful 4-month-old cream doodle named Diesel, but I have a few questions for those of you who know more about the breed than I do...
Diesel is very, very quiet for a pup his age. He spooks quite easily at noises, vehicles and will literally climb (or jump) onto me when he is scared. He is extremely gentle with people, and is shy around most other dogs.
I've been taking him for walks around the neighborhood, trying to introduce him to his new surroundings but he seems quite lethargic and even depressed.
Just looking for any suggestions as to how to get him out of this 'funk', as I have never experienced this with any of my other dogs.
Thanks guys!!

[Riverkatie]

You say he is a rescue? Do you know anything about his history? Doodles are normally cheerful, happy go lucky dogs, so this is unusual.

As to what to do, I would fill my pockets with his favorite treat (chopped very small) and go and sit on a bench somewhere. A noisy car goes past, pop a treat in his mouth, a big dog passes, in goes another treat, teenager on a skateboard...more treats. Most doodles will do anything for a treat and I hope he ends up thinking.....noisy car, oh goodie, a treat!
Don't waste time telling him off for being in a funk, just ignore it...pretend its boring behaviour and you are not interested in boring dogs.....and treat like mad when he does show a bit of confidence.

If he has had a bad time, it will take time, but I am sure with patience and love he will come around.