Putting the “dog” conversation in context of places I’ve lived:
Question: May I pet your dog?
South Carolina Answer: A 20-minute conversation about how the person came to own the dog, the troubles it’s faced in life and the long term behavioral issues as a result (summary: No, he might bite. It’s not his fault. Don’t think less of him)
Arizona Answer: The person ignores the question, holds the dogs arms-length away while it growls and snaps at you, all the while engaging in unrelated small talk.
Boston Answer: A strange look, perhaps a little weirded out. Walks away. (unless you’ve lived next door to them for 30 years, meaning they consider you an aquaintance and are confused by the question)
LA Answer: Let’s the dog bite you. Pulls the dog away with an indignant look at you as you bleed. Cradles the poor traumatized puppy. Both you and the dog owner file suit against each other for the perceived offense committed (the owner including the cost of teeth cleaning and a doggy shrink in addition to many other things)
New York Answer: No