I allow people to pet my dogs all the time I do not have an issue with it and as far as someone stealing your dog while your walking it is very unlikely. if you leave the dog alone outside that is the time the dog will most likely be stolen. Do not get a gun chances are you will get shot with your own gun. People go thru the BS concealed weapons class and think now I will carry a gun but the fact is learning some basic gun handling and shooting a few targets will not prepare you for shooting someone. Guns give many owners a false sense of security and that owner will put themselves in situation because of the false sense of security that they normally would not. Maybe you should take some self defense classes this will help you build strength and real confidence and also teach you how to avoid most situations and how to defend yourself enough to possibly get away from the ones you cant.