Dealing with aggressive dogs while on a run can be a nerve-wracking and scary situation. While I know several people who carry pepper spray or a similar substance, I don’t have any experience with it and simply advise what I’ve read about them: make sure you know how to use it before you have to use it. IE, know if it comes out in a spray vs. a stream, how far it goes, etc. And stay down wind!
So the best thing to do if you see a dog come toward you is to stop and put your hands up and address the dog loudly. If it seems angry or upset then try to calmly talk it down so it stops. Only proceed slowly on your way once it seems that it is no longer pursuing you.
In my experience, taking an aggressive approach myself has proven successful as well. If I see a dog that appears aggressive headed my way I’ll go straight to the side of the road and pick up a sizable stick or rock and hold it poised for defense. If nothing is available I have found that even pretending to pick something up and holding your hand/arm as if you have something to throw/hit works too.
Often non-aggressive dogs will pursue you just out of fun/curiosity. If it’s clear where it came from, the polite thing to do (even if it’s not your responsibility) is to run to where you can contact its owner and have it take care of it. At least shout loudly so perhaps the owner may be aware of the dog’s attempt to follow you and can come collect it.
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