Living in TN and riding frequently in the southern backwoods where people don't know what a dog leash is, I have been chased many times by dogs of all sizes and breeds. My Dad taught me a trick: Let the dog get right up next to you and blast the dog in the face with water from your water bottle. This has not failed me yet (knock on wood) and I actually had one dog yelp and whine like I hurt him. LOL