To have been terrified at this?

[frostedviolets]

There is a dog that I often see out and about.

Whenever it sees me or my dog it goes really hard eyed and stares at us and walks more slowly towards us.

It’s not a collie so not ‘herding’ behaviour.
it’s absolutely massive.
Like some enormous hound type dog.

Honestly, this dog absolutely petrifies me but it’s always leashed.

It was on the path today but loose (I didn’t realise at first), staring and slowed as usual but I wasnt too concerned because I thought it was leashed.

When it got close to me it approaches me, not a happy bouncy approach but that slightly lowered ‘predatory’ type fast walk.

I turned my back on it quickly while the owner quickly grabbed its collar.
Apparently ‘he’s never done that before’
I just about managed to squeak out ‘it’s okay’ but honestly I was absolutely petrified.

I’m unsure if I should be concerned?
I have thought about reporting it but it hasn’t actually ‘done’ anything to me, I don’t know if it would be silly of me to report it?

Don't try and stare down an intimidating dog
I never would.
I always deliberately avert my eyes from it

This would unnerve me too. I like dogs but they aren’t all friendly or well trained, and I’d never assume one wasn’t dangerous. I’d probably try to change my walking route to avoid them and/or have a chat with the owner.

I once had a dog go for me in the park, I was out running. The owner shouted at ME, told me it was MY FAULT and it was because I was wearing black and her dog didn't like men and always assumed people wearing black were men. Next time could I wear something different and just stand still and hold my hands up so he couldn't bite them. Righto lady, your dog needs to not be in the general population of dogs.

Sounds pretty scary to me . I think if your instincts are telling you something isn’t right then you should listen to them. Not sure what you could actually do though. Maybe you could try to talk to the owner again, or even speak to a dog behavioural specialist to see if they can advise?

If a dog had stiff body language it isn't being friendly. I think you are right to be wary and give the dog a wide berth.

There was one like that at dog park. Stunning looking dog, but stiff body language and would target my staffy. We always left when it arrived and someone told me it started lots of fights.

If the ddog is usually fine with people - maybe you are the problem op!!