I come across dogs fairly regularly on many of my rural rides. But I've never been bitten or chased very far. I don't carry pepper spray or other 'deterrents' to defend myself. So what do I do?

I bark as loud as I can at the dog.

I know it sounds crazy, but it works. I usually stand up to make myself as big as possible, turn to face the dog, and bark as loud as I can. It never fails to confuse the animal long enough for me to ride away. And if that ever doesn't work, I have no problem resorting to my soccer skills.