Quote Originally Posted by Lisa S.H.
I stopped and used my most deep loud voice and shouted "No! GO HOME!!!" and pointed away. He stopped right away, hung his head in shame and ran off home. I was amazed. This may not work with german shepards or dobermans, but I think it has a good chance with goldens and labs, etc.
It will work with Dobes, Shepherds, etc. I would not point anywhere because an adrenalized dog might think he is being threatened by your arm and attack.

Re: pepper spray, mace, etc. My experience is that if the dog is really "open for business" they don't work. The dog will think that the strange-thing-with-the-big-head-on-the-bike attacked him and it could enrage him further. The best you could hope for is a momentary pause that allows you to sprint away. A German Shepherd can run 30 mph, though, so you better be a darn good sprinter!

Liberty, I would offer up two suggestions:

1. Find another route if possible.

2. Contact animal control and your local police. These owners need to get their dogs under control. Did you happen to get pictures of your accident? Any witnesses? A letter from a lawyer can be a good deterrent too.

I'm sorry this happened to you. It makes all dog owners look bad.