Yes, be careful! New Mexico has had a few bear attacks in the last few years, with one death. Colorado has had three bear attacks just this year, plus several more involving Mountain Lions (Lobos, Pumas, whatever). I don't do areas where predators roam, but I do get an occasional dog issue. I carry a can of Halt dog spray just in case. One caution applicable to bear and cat spray too, and that is to make sure you're up wind when you spray it! That capsaicin does sting rather unhealthily!