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...when a dog lunges at you?

Lunge? What lunge? Watch the video again.

I have dealt with dogs attacking me a number of times. Dogs bigger than Patton. Each time, except one, I had something hard in my hand that I was able to use to apply some "persuasion" to the dog's snout. Forcefully. And each time, the argument ended right there. The one time I didn't have anything handy, I used my fist like a hammer in the same manner. Same result. I am a big guy and I am well able to defend myself. I do not fear dogs. Nor do I antagonize them. I love them and have owned several. They are amazing creatures and are able to sense both these emotions. If officer Hall had been trained properly, he would have used his shotgun in a different manner and we would not be having this discussion.

I have not expressed any disrespect for any of the average joes on the job in this or any other thread...except for this one cowardly weasel with a badge that shot this dog. He messed up bad and can't admit that he panicked and fired.

You are right to defend police officers. My father-in-law is a retired cop. On the whole they are honorable people that do a great job at a number of thankless, crappy tasks. But to defend this particular piece of crap is wrong. Just my opinion. Have a nice weekend.

You are probably correct that this officer could use some extra training. But I don't agree with with crucifying a cop on national television for not having the skills and experience you possess.

And if the guy had smashed the dog in the nose as you recommend, the cop-hating sensation mongers would be playing that tape, too, as evidence of police brutality.

P.S. When did you ever know a cop that would admit he panicked? They panic all the time. It's natural in some of the scarey situations they face. But the code is "never let them see you sweat." It's part of maintaining control in a frightening profession.

It's like doctors and the black humor many use to help them survive the psychological impact of what they see and what they have to do.