rkk01
It seems to me fairly clear that under control is on a lead OR at heel - or coming to heel/ stopping on command. A well trained dog does this
I don't want them on a lead at all times - but I do want that when I ring my bell the owner calls the dog and the dog responds to the call. I don't want the dog running up to me - friendly or not. I don't want it "playing" and chasing the bike - I want it to leave me alone as I leave it alone.
Agreed. I got distracted, but I was going to add that as long as your expectation for the dog owners exercise for control is matched by your own exercise of control of your vehicle, then everyone will be happy...
And I agree a lot of dog owners are irresponsible and don't control their animals. But, at the end of the day, they are animals, and startled by a bike, the bike could be a major factor in the owners ability to control the dog - as per the references to horses further up the thread.
Unfortunately, for as many dog owners we meet who don't exercise control, we meet as many mtbers who would prefer to continue down a trail rather than give way, slow down or accomodate other users. (and I know that you said you slow down etc.)