Indeed, remember that most encounters with dogs are playful. So try to accept these sitituations, be positive, and learn not to fear. Dismounting may help, and – believe it or not – talking to the dog may help too.

Try not to look the dog straight in the eyes. AND NEVER MOVE YOUR HAND TOWARDS THE DOG’S FACE!

I once had an unexpected encounter with two big dogs who ran straight towards me and my medio dog while I was walking in a forest with the leash on. I wasn’t afraid, but uncomfortable because I never met these dogs so I didn’t know how ‘playful’ these were, and there owner wasn’t nearby. Fortunately, my dog was cool about the situation (and didn’t run away). But they came too close to my dog for my taste so I tried to non-aggressively keep them somewhat at a safe distance. I can’t remember, but I do believe I also tried to talk to the dogs. That one moment felt like an eternity! Finally the owner, a young couple that must have thought they were alone out there, came to the rescue. No harm was done. Only afterwards I noticed some minor scratches, and realized that I cared more about my dog than myself in fact. I protected him, and he protected me.

Maybe take a tennis-ball with you, as that may be a distraction tool?

And keep working on your sprints ;-)