Pet feuds are all too common. It’s kind of crazy that one would devolve into a shooting with a flare gun but not surprising either. I adopted a Belgian Malinois puppy 6 months ago and walk him throughout my and adjacent neighborhoods every evening. I’m conscious of the fact that at 8 months and already 75 pounds, he is intimidating. He is well trained and walks (leashed) on my side. He does alert to other dogs, cats, rabbits, squirrels, etc., but does not growl, bark, or lunge. During our walks we encounter many other dogs and there are no issues. However, there has not been a week go by where we didn’t come across at least one situation with some “Karen” who scoops up their designer dog du-jour, and in some cases admonishes me for having what they deem a “dangerous dog.” I ignore them and continue on my way. This seems to infuriate them because they feel they are owed some response. Yesterday I had one follow me 2 blocks taking pictures, saying she was documenting my dog and I to post on some neighborhood app to warn others of a “dangerous” dog and it’s “irresponsible” owner.
“Yesterday I had one follow me 2 blocks taking pictures...”
Unbelievable. I think ignoring them is a good idea. They are the sort of people who are spoiling for a fight - probably because they are lacking something in their lives.