DH and I argue about this.  If we meet a dog that looks like he/she wants to be dominant or is big or is a certain breed (DH was bitten by a GSD) DH thinks our timid, submissive Lab should be on the leash.  I think she should be off-leash.  If there is going to be a skirmish I think she is better off not getting tangled up in the leash and can get away, although she is so timid she just lies down and cries and cowers.  Also, without the leash on there is less chance of me getting dragged into it, I've been through the bit where dogs and leash get wrapped around my legs.

What do you think?

I agree with you.  It also leaves your dog free to give all the required signals to hopefully avert an attack.  Being on lead the dog has no option but to get defensive, often provoiking an attack.  Only problem could be if she could run into danger if she panics.  Without the lead you at least can do something about the situation.

I have two Siberian Huskeis and they have to be kept on a lead at all times regardless of circumstances. Their breed is particularly prone to dog attacks because of their stance, e.g. curled tail (producing lots of dominant air), on their toes (natural stance), pricked ears (showing aggressiveness)...all this of course is in another dog's eyes. A few other breeds suffer from this too such as boxers.

Another thing relating to your question is, dogs who are obedient off-lead become more protective/aggressive when on-lead with owner. I know this for a fact because of a pair of GSDs I know. One is absolutely lovely both on-lead and off but the other is only tolerate of my dogs when off-lead.

It doesn't matter who's dog is or isn't on a lead, it depends more on what both dogs are like. Your dog is probably safer off-lead if you are certain she will not retaliate. However, either way, the aggressive dog should not be walked near other dogs if it is forced to be on a lead.

Keira.

P.S. what does DH stand for?

Jet is very submissive and has never retaliated.  At age 12 now, I am confident she never will.  She doesn't even like to play if the other dog is into rough stuff like full weight body slams.

DH.  I think in the UK you tend to use OH.  I'm in Canada and we seem to use DH in North Amerca.  The H is for husband.  The D can vary, a term of endearment or a curse.  You can usually figure out which from the post.

Thank you both.  I never thought of the body language part but you are right Brainless, Jet just sits down and looks miserable when the other dog is head and tail up.

And KeiraAlphaByron I see your point too.  You will be dismayed to hear that the worst dog attack we ever went through was two teams of Siberians attacking our ESS.  Completely the musher's fault as we were well off the trail and letting them go by but our dog (off leash and highly obedient) suffered serious consequences including a suspected broken neck.