I live in South Alabama. Geting chased by dogs is a daily occurance. Most just chase, bark and head home. The ones that are more aggresive I use Sabre Red Self Defense Pepper Spray. Available on Amazon. It will drop a dog in it's tracks. Including the Pit Bull that bite me last winter. Went back to try it out. Worked. The Pit Bull that bit me cost the insurance company $6300.00 and me a lot of pain.

Being nice may work but why take a chance.