I’m with you. Dogs should not be off leash if it’s against the law or ordinance, and they should not be off leash if they cannot be controlled by voice.

We used to have a dog who was aggressive towards other dogs. We took great care to try and socialize him gently and train him and keep everyone safe (including walking him late at night, and always on a secure leash and harness).

One time he attacked an off-leash dog who came by to sniff and was clearly not listening when her owner called her. It was very traumatic for everyone involved, the other dog almost died, and I still have the scar on my leg.

The fact that people think “tee hee hurr durr my dog is so nice” is ridiculous and not a good enough reason to cause havoc. Sure, your dog might be nice but that doesn’t change that fact that other dogs might be aggressive, and that people (especially children) who are scared of dogs should be allowed to walk the streets without being in terror.