Yes, the owner was irresponsible for not controlling his pet. The simple fact that the soldier had time to go into his house and retrieve a firearm was proof that he had escaped any immediate danger and there was no need to shoot the dog AT THAT TIME. Sure....he might have had to defend himself if the animal continued to threaten him or his family after he spoke with the owner or animal control, but the fact that he was safe inside the house shows that he had several other options that should have been explored first. The dog deserved better treatment from both of them.