People who are unfamiliar with dogs or have never owned one, are more likely to be intimidated or even afraid of them. While people who are familiar with dogs, grew up with them or own a dog, understand them, know how to read their signals, and have the sense to have some respect for what they are capable of, particularly when they meet one they are not familiar with.
Guns are the same way. People who are unfamiliar or who have never handled or owned a gun are intimidated, wary, even frightened of them. While lawful gun owners, hunters, sport shooters, and folks who feel the need to own a gun for self defense are more likely to understand them, and have the sense to have some respect for what any gun is capable of particularly when they are introduced to one they are not familiar with.