First, I'm glad it wasn't worse~! Second, calling the Sheriff was a great thing to do. Shame on the owner for not controlling their dog.
I am a dog owner, and yes, my dogs are my kids~! And, Yes, I have been bit in the face by a GSD with I was a kid - can't shave my upper lip due to scarring...
If a dog is attacking, you do what you gotta do to protect yourself, PERIOD~! Example - my dogs are not outside their fenced dog-area unless I and/or my wife are outside with them. And none of the three would chase a kid, car, or bike - as they were taught not to do so. my 74lb GSD has very strong drives, but still learned what is expected of her by me.
I carry both HALT! and a big stick (my cane), and will use whichever is needed at the time.
