from my dog trainer friend:

[madisongrrl]

Realistically, yelling may stop the dog or might inflame the situation. I recommend spraying water in the dog's face or using direct stop citronella spray. Stay away from pepper spray because it often can make aggressive dogs more aggressive.

If you can out ride the dog, do so. But the dog is most likely trying to chase you because his prey drive is kicking in and/or because of poor human leadership, care and management (dog is left unattended in yard and is filling his day with chasing bikers because it is a fun doggy came to play).

If you think the dog is going to out run you, stop and get off your bike (the motion of the bike is directly causing the dog to chase you, so stop moving). Keep the bike between you and the dog. Slowly walk away, ignore the dog (avert your eyes and turn your head - this is very clear canine communication) and act uninterested (when doing this try to the watch the dog out of the corner of your eye so you can read his body language).

I wouldn't recommend hitting the dog. Try to avoid it because you won't win and you might make the situation worse for yourself. Most situations can be handled or diffused non physically.

Stay safe,
Associate Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (Canine Division)