Maybe i'm just lucky, the most popular place near us for walking dogs is a race course, where at any time of day or night you will find dogs being exercised. There is rarely any trouble. I agree that dogs showing aggressive behaviour to people or other dogs should never be off lead in a public area, neither should dogs with unreliable recalls. We always stress to new dog owners attending classes, their dog is their responsibility, and must never be allowed to spoil others enjoyment. I've been to the beach this morning, it was quite busy, lots of dogs enjoying the company of their families, both human and canine, dogs chasing in and out of the sea, catching balls and enjoying life. our dogs didn't bother anyone else and no-ones dogs bothered us. we have already lost so many of the simple pleasures in life, I would hate to think we may loose another.