Will My Dog Protect Me?

Some people ask me, do you think my dog would protect me, if necessary?
Well yesterday walking Misha and Snickers in the neighborhood, suddenly I hear barking behind me and there are 2 loose dogs. Both large and running towards us. I tell them to go away in a stern voice and it is not making any difference. Suddenly Snickers, such a loveable never shown any aggression toward dogs, gets out of her collar and barks and snaps at the dogs sending them on their way. If a dog can sense you need help, it will protect.