That's true, we don't see that many dogs just running around with no leashes or unattended. There is only one area where you can see that but I would not ride thier anyway. I can sooner fins a snake or a tarantula running across the road.
As I said, the only thing that dogs are looking for is dominance. If you are not the dominent one, a dog will take that space. Just be firm and sharp. But first of all, be safe.