This is why my hiking boots have steel toes. I cannot tell you how many times “Fluffy” has come bounding around the turn in the trail and immediately come after my dog, on a leash btw.
I have punted a couple of dogs this summer, not hard enough to do permanent damage but enough to get the dogs attention. Almost immediately, typically, the owner of “fluffy” starts to get an attitude. This usually changes when they see my dog on a leash, my two little girls, and (ahem) a 9mm on my hip.
I calmly explain to the owner that while “fluffy” may be the sweetest animal on the planet, I will keep their dog appraised of the fact that I am an Alpha of my pack and I will defend them.
LOL
This is a pet (no, it is a pun) peeve of mine.
I carry a large padlock on a cable just for this reason.
I have been bitten by dogs, all of whom the owner was shocked - as “fluffy” wouldn’t hurt a fly.... so, never again.
And a pistol, just in case the owners gets pissed at thier mutt getting whacked. Or I have a run in with a black bear - they seem to like the bike paths up here.
Sorry for the pooch, but responsible owners keep thier animals on a leash...