As I stated earlier, and kind of candidly, I work with dogs of all breeds, 24/7. To qualify that, I own a boarding kennel & grooming salon. Before that, The Wife used to manage a boarding/quarantine kennel in England & spent a TON of time working with prison & police take down dogs.
I've been in so many similar situations, in close & confined quarters it's not even funny. In a similar situation, in the middle of BFE, confronted by an unknown, large breed dog, acting aggressively...... I'd like to think I would've done exactly what the OP described. Drawn & been cautious, but restrained myself.
Very, very few 'aggressive' dogs actually get into contact, bite, or attack situations, although it does happen. I've learned, over the years, that 99% of 'attacks' actually stop incredibly close. I've never experienced a bluff charge by a bear (and I hope I never do) but I reckon I'd be killing a bear at 10 yds. A dog, I wouldn't consider to be attacking until I feel teeth.
Dogs are so conditioned to humans that their sense of personal space is far closer than (I'd assume) 99% of actual wild animals.
Incidentally, I've been bitten pretty much weekly for the last 11 years. Number 1 suspect is tied between Chihuahuas & Shihtzus. Number 2 is dachshunds. Labs & Poodles would be high on the list.
GSDs, Rottweilers & Pits would probably be the bottom 3 on my personal list.