[quote=AlapahaBlueBloodBulldog]Your characterization of the pit bull, american bulldog and cane corso having a harsh temperment is wrong.[/quote] I disagree. You cannot predict if this loose dog has been raised to be aggressive, submissive, friendly, etc.. You don't know. You don't know if they come from a line of good temperament vs. bad temperament. [quote=4myneo]I have to disagree too as some of the breeds mentioned have huge amounts of prey drive.[/quote] I agree. Now. To the point. What to do if a dog comes at you.. Its really not rational to carry a 5' long stick when walking, unless you plan to walk slowly and use it as a walking stick. ....? You would probably start to carry it for a few walks, then get tired of lugging it and stop. The problem w/ being "attacked" is it usually happens when you least expect it. So, probably if you can find something to fit comfortabley in your free hand that is accessible. I don't find the pepper spray "accessible" to open the d@mn lid! *especially remember you also holding a small probably panicking dog.... Often the loose dogs are in their own "territory." I was taught to turn and quickly go the opposite way. A dog just wants to protect "his" space. Get out of it & you are fine. I had a medium dog come at Khloe (cc/neo) & I on a busy street once. Came running down the block nearly got hit. Quite aggressive. I made Khloe "sit & leave it" while I took care of the dog and kicked it in the head. Hated to do it, but I had to. *I was most ticked that no one stopped to help. :x I suppose I looked funny w/ my big dog sitting while I took on the other dog.... Anyway, it ran home. My point is, train your dog too. How it reacts can fuel or diffuse a fire. Your dog needs to know your in charge. In the end, most people say they have a large breed for protection. (I realize you dont', just making a point to something on the 1st page). I agree that [u]if you must[/u], let your dog protect you. That is what they are there for, is it not? It is there honor, there duty. You can do all you can, even "investigate" your neighborhood you walk, that still won't guarantee a dog won't come at you. Kids leave doors open all the time. Dogs dig out, jump out, etc.. Be safe. Don't wear your ipod too loud that you can't hear the outside. Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your dog as you walk, they will smell a dog in a bush around the corner. I don't know about the eye staring. Will see what my trainer says. GREAT TOPIC BTW!