[Maximo]

I share your feelings about wanting to socialize my dogs, but wanting to protect them. Don't worry about what other people think.

I would be very cautious with introducing your little guy to other dogs. Even when the owner says their dog is nice, how do they know how their dog will react to a small furball? Most of them have no idea.

I stay away from people using retractable leashes and who appear to not have full control over their dogs.

Even small dogs can be not so great. We have met so many that want to paw at my boys' faces or jump on their heads, which really irritates my guys.

I would leave Bentley on the ground and not pick him up unless you are going to be passing closely to the other dogs, or if it looks like someone is going to approach you without asking. Picking him up could cause him to fear other dogs.