Quote Originally Posted by Trek-chick View Post
Unfortunately, she believes in hitting dogs ( I can not stand this act in people--it makes me so angry) so she smacked the dog too.
Ah, so here I had all these theories ranging from: normally friendly dog has an illness and should see a vet, needs socialization to cyclists, practice introductions like when you walk INTO the room and the dog is already there there are some "rank in the pack" issues to be worked out ... blah blah blah.

She hits the dog. Wonderful. Lovely. That teaches the dog NOTHING other than to fear people.

I've heard from a trainer "you get the dog you deserve". Unfortunately that dog has not gotten the person he or she deserved. I'm not sure whose job it is to teach the owner positive training methods, to work towards behavior she wants instead of punishing away from unwanted actions.

I'm not sure if bringing treats, doing some simple "sit" treat and praise goes to the dog demos would help (can this owner be trained?) or if you just want to stay away.