Who lets their dogs out in rural France?

We are keen cyclists and walkers, but have both been attacked by such dogs while out walking and riding on the roads in the countryside.

We are now apprehensive when approaching certain houses, as these dogs come charging out into the road in an intimidating manner.

I do not understand why people keep dogs like this, as they appear to me to be neither working animals nor pets.

I thought there was a law requiring dog owners to keep animals under control in public areas, but this appears to be flouted in rural parts.

John HALL, Brittany