What's Up With All the Stray Dogs? A Quick Guide to Soi Dogs
Soi Dogs: Thailand’s Unofficial (and Occasionally Rabid) Welcome Committee Welcome to Thailand, where the temples are golden, the beaches are pristine, and the streets are ruled by the true locals: soi dogs . These furry (or sometimes mangy) freeloaders are everywhere: sleeping on sidewalks, lounging outside 7-Elevens, and judging your life choices as you stumble home at 3 AM. But who are these mysterious creatures? Are they strays? Temple guardians? Rabies ambassadors? Let’s decode the chaotic world of Thailand’s street dogs. What Exactly Is a Soi Dog? A “soi dog” (literally "alley dog") is Thailand’s answer to urban wildlife. They’re not quite pets, not quite wild, and definitely not paying rent. You’ll find them: - Sunbathing like retired expats. - Chilling in front of 7-Eleven to enjoy the aircon from inside. - Begging at food stalls (with better manners than some tourists). - Forming motorcycle gangs (okay, sma...