This post is a recurring one, but an important one for those that have dogs feral or loose. As a dog attack survivor (there was two),
any and all means of defense is better than bare hands and feet. Knives, OC spray, baseball bats, golf clubs, walking sticks, pistols, whatever,....will help.
But bear in mind YOUR STATE OF MIND is paramount to reducing the severity of your injuries. If a dog(s) decides to attack, they only attack one way: FULL BORE!. They will "test" your response to the initial attack, and know very quickly if they think they can take you down.
Some will keep coming, even if injured, some will scurry away, if your response is EQUAL to theirs.
Swift and blinding violent blows, if you have no firearm, and don't stop shooting after one round, if armed.
I stabbed my attacking dog twice right behind the front left leg with a small Buck pocket knife, as I instinctively defended my face and neck. (left handed),. The second dog didn't have the "balls" of the other one, a commanding pissed off demeanor, a kick and charge ran them both off.
Had I been armed, I would have shot both, without hesitation.
Dogs, at that level, even "family friendly breeds" are no joke in a pack, or feral situation.
Like the Boy Scout motto:
Be Prepared.
just my personal .02cents.