I don't like loose dogs approaching me and my dog while we are out walking.

[Pool Hall Ace]

My dog and I were just approached by a big dog while out walking not far from home. I couldn't tell if it was a wild dog or not at first.

The owner appeared out of nowhere and muttered, "Sorry," but I doubt he's going to change his dog-walking habits.

I really don't want to wait until my dog is attacked by another dog. What is the best way to ward off loose dogs? I don't like the idea of carrying a big stick. Does mace work? (Is it even legal?) I feel bad for dogs who are allowed off-leash and I would prefer to mace their owners, but I'm not sure what to do.

[Zoigal]

1. Don't blame you. Never know if the unleashed dog is aggressive

or not. One of the reasons i seldom take them to the local park. My dogs are quite big,
but not aggressive, but i never know if a smaller dog might be. And that could cause real problems
basically for the smaller dog if they decide to attack. Don't know the answer. Talking with people
really doesn't seem to help......z

[Pool Hall Ace]

2. One board I read suggested

taking an automatic umbrella along with you on walks. If a strange dog approaches, just let 'er rip open.

Of course, that still doesn't do anything about numbnutz owners, but it should sufficiently scare the approaching dog.

[Zoigal]

5. Like the umbrella idea; am going to try it...z

[Warpy]

6. I'd carry pepper spray, too

but try the umbrella trick first. I don't want to hurt a dog if I can possibly help it.

[glinda]

3. I would carry pepper spray as well as something that can make a big sound.

[roody]

4. We use citronella spray in training class.

[Walk away]

7. Use pepper spray on the owners....air horns work great for the dogs. nt