They all say that and "don't worry he's friendly" but their apologies after the dog attacks are even less believable.. some people just don't care. I had a golden retriever come running down the road after one of our dogs- on lead- and literally try to kill him-- two of us -adult men- did all we could to get that dog off and we did finally but our dog would never go for a walk again. I know this was your front yard but I carry pepper spray when I walk after that incident and I never trust "oh he is friendly".. maybe they are right but you don't find out till it is too late and they scuttle off and close their door.