A little nervous...

[sundial]

My leg served as a chicken nugget for a dog on one of my rides. I wasn't going to let it stop me and I still continue to ride where the dog is and haven't had any more problems since. If you give off the vibes that you are afraid, the dog will pick up on it and react accordingly. I have found that a good squirt of water in the dog's face, slowing the bike, or getting between the bike and the dog while standing your ground helps ward off curious fear biters. It worked for me when a concerned mama pit bull came out to greet me.

Perhaps until you feel really confident about riding alone where doggies could be hiding, a riding partner will help alleviate some of your frustrations and concerns. If you want to arm yourself with some protection, get some bear spray.

Something else that I carry is a Find Me Spot that will alert 911 authorities if I need help fast. I can also program it to text to my hubby every 10 minutes that I am ok and includes the GPS coordinates should I summon his help.