Lumerai - the first step is to realise that you're not alone in having a fear of dogs. It isn't illogical. As Iam says all dogs need to be trained. And even then can revert sometimes.
I tend to agree with the earlier posters (Clare, Tanith, Muffin).
If a dog runs up to you barking, face them down. Definitely don't turn and run.
In general I love dogs, but have had some frightening situations too. Where we live now there's a fashion for huskies. Every evening at about 6pm 2 young people walk these gorgeous dogs - on leads, but still controlling their humans. I often come home at that time and they lunge towards me barking madly. They nearly pull over their owners.
I admit I'm scared.
If I were you, I would buy a sweet little labrador puppy and train it yourself.
Soop's warm and welcoming kitchen for kindly folk.
Should women have equal pay and opportunities?
To think that London, or anywhere else for that matter, does not belong to any one demographic