Was I Wrong? (Long Story)

I would have just walked away. I rake both dogs at once when I go too. It seems that the guy asked you and did not demand. The proper answer would be we will finish up as soon as we can and get out of the way for your dog. This way you are not confrontational and he knows you will be leaving. I bet none of thus would have gone further. Sometime arguing and responding in kind is warranted but not for this. I think you showed a lack of judgement and saying you picked this battle and was ok with it is childish. You did not line what thus guy had been doing before and this was your option to let him know. It spun out of control and you were lucky it stooped there. I have taken many reports where it got bloody and someone ended up in jail , in the hospital or dead. Sometimes it is just easier to look at the other side and say, sure I will help you out. Everyone has a bad day and new pups add to stress from time to time as kids and families do.