First of all, it doesn't matter if you don't spray them anymore. Just the fact that you have in the past and now the poor dogs react to the bottle. Second, I don't care if it hurts that I said you shouldn't have any animals - because - you shouldn't! If you're worried that damn much of what your neighbors think, or if it's a risk that you might get thrown out, you shouldn't have a dog. So then, you restrict it even more, to save your own ass.

Third, I don't care about the other "complaints." That isn't the subject here with you, now is it? Using a leash is for the safety of the dog, if worn properly, it doesn't harm the dog. Spraying water in the dog's face because, OH MY GOD, IT BARKED!!! is not at all for it's own safety. Get a friggin' clue.