Approaching this from an Animal Behaviour P.o.V (which I some experience in) I agree with some of the article and disagree with some of the article. First off, facing off against a dog can work. BUT it is also just as likely to trigger an attack if he thinks he can be the Alpha. Don't assume that hitting a dog will cause it to stop and think, thats a bit niave. If you stun it, then, fair enough. Dog's are ruled by instinct and training. Both would tell it to fight harder if you retaliate, until the point that it knows its beaten or one of you dies. Don't think you are faster than it. A dog will out sprint you and EASILY out last any human on a long distance run. African Wild dogs are said to have two speeds, running and fast forward, they literally wear down their prey before tearing it to pieces. Normal dogs are the same, its how they hunt. You are spot on in saying don't turn your back. In a confrontation, this will trigger an instant attack that the dog will be almost unable to stop itself carrying out. Nice article.