If you can comfortably fire a J-frame 38, then a 9mm should be within your abilities assuming you have enough hand strength to operate the slide and other controls.
There are a number of quality, relatively high-capacity but still small enough for carry 9mm autos. Glock 26, S&W M&P Compact, Ruger SR9c come to mind.
If you live in the area where that pack of dogs is reported and are out and about in places where they might be a threat, then a higher capacity handgun seems likea prudent idea. The bear/pepper spray idea couldn't hurt either, and would give you a choice of options depending on the situation.
There are a number of quality, relatively high-capacity but still small enough for carry 9mm autos. Glock 26, S&W M&P Compact, Ruger SR9c come to mind.
If you live in the area where that pack of dogs is reported and are out and about in places where they might be a threat, then a higher capacity handgun seems likea prudent idea. The bear/pepper spray idea couldn't hurt either, and would give you a choice of options depending on the situation.