QUOTE(Justin.Loong @ Dec 9 2019, 08:52 AM)
+1 for Andrew's advice.
When the dogs get close, you can also shout at the top of your lungs to scare the dogs away.
Also,
don't agitate the dogs any further than necessary or else the next group of cyclist will also kena.
mytaffetaDon't pedal full speed because it gives the dogs the impression that you are their "prey" / target.

this is the exact reason.
often time i see ppl jogging while carrying stick. i know it's for them to defend themselves against dogs (or robbers, if some may insist), but tell you what, when the dog sees a stick, their defense mechanism kicks in and they enter into fight or flight mode. they become more aggressive against the jogger (or anyone with a stick), which in return the jogger would swing the stick or actually beat the dog. the next time dog automatically sees anyone carrying a stick (even walking stick or umbrella) as a threat. things get repeated until it becomes a chicken or egg case as to whose fault it was.
often times it is the dogs that are the weaker victims when councils gets called in. sure once in a while you do get story about ppl getting bitten by dog BUT it is more rare in comparison to the untold stories of dogs getting whacked/poisoned/caught.
people should know these facts :
1. dog packs are territorial, yes and when they sense strangers, they'll be "protective". it's just their natural instinct.
2. it is because they're afraid of these strangers whose level of threats are unknown that they bark and act aggressive - being defensive. remember, they're scared of you in the first place. they'll run after you because they're "chasing you away" from their territory. that is why i said ignore and go your way steadily. dont react. i know some ppl would be scared and shocked, bcoz, again, it's just natural instinct,
remember, those are dogs, we are human. we have control over our emotions. they dont. so are you a human or a dog?3. there are also cases where dogs are just being playful. google and learn some basic dog body languages. some dogs just chase for fun because they're just being mischievous friendly/playful and of no threat at all. if you are non-muslims with no issue about touching dogs, then do indulge them, play abit with them, feed them. they may be wary at you in the first place, but dont force it. know when to leave. after a few more times, they'll recognise you and wont bother with you. but pay extra attention to growling & fang baring. oh, and if you see
foam at their mouth, stay the hell away. that's the sign of a rabid dog. dont continue, dont approach, turn around and pedal the other way round. find other routes.
i may sound like a dog apologetic, but trust me, i am just sharing some knowledge so all of us can go our way in peace. i cycle in taman alot so encountering street dogs are common thing for me.
p.s. : i am a cat person more than a dog person.