A properly socialized dog is comfortable in almost any situation.

If you are nervous, so is your dog. If you are friendly and content, so is your dog. You control the situation. Your dog feeds off of and reacts to your energy. I am not saying to not take precaution but try and not share so much of that negative energy with your dog. Instead, start asking your dog to sit in a happy, comforting time. Ask them to stay, or leave it. Just keep repeating but in a happy, reassuring voice. This will create a positive result. Where as becoming worked up and scared results in your dog becoming nervous and unpredictable. You know your dogs limits, his or her likes and dislikes. Utilize this knowledge to socialize your dog. They are OUR best friends, after all!