Cities are crowded. People, cars, trucks, and for dog owners - lots of dogs. In the urban environment you should assume that no one wants their dog to interact with your dog. As rude as this sounds; how many times have you been on the bus or subway and someone has tried to strike up a conversation with you, but you don't feel like chatting? Similar to people, dogs don't chat with every dog they see. You don't walk down the street and say hello to everyone you see do you? Your dog shouldn't have to either.
If you have to pass another dog make sure you put your dog on the outside of the sidewalk, away from the other dog. Also keep your leash short. A good "leave-it" command can be enough to encourage your dog to ignore the other dog.
When you have people coming down the sidewalk toward you, again call your dog to you and have them heel next to you. Make sure they are not on the side that the person will pass you on. This can help prevent the dog from sniffing or jumping on the stranger. Not only does it show that you have control over your dog, but also that you care about giving everyone a chance to not have to interact with your dog.
There are dog owners out there who believe that Poochy can be free to roam off leash or at the end of a 1508' leash. If you see these people coming simply cross to the other side of the street, or turn around and walk the other direction. Don't let their shameful behavior ruin your dog's training.
Tip for the day:
Practice calling your dog back to you while out on a walk. Let them wander to the end of the 6' leash, then at random intervals call their name with whatever recall command you use. Use treats profusely. This could save your dogs life should a bus turn in front of you or if he were to dart after a squirrel into traffic.
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