I guess I don't see dog training as my responsibility, nor should I have to learn to be "unafraid." However, I have no practical solutions for the dog problem except to state it is not a problem in my area, where the laws are strictly enforced, and certain breeds have been prohibited. Moving is my only thought. I wouldn't shoot the dog, but I would use bear spray, given I had enough time. As coyotes become more and more of a menace, I may consider the bear spray.
You might be interested in completing this dog control poll:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...l-in-Your-Area