Dog Meat Consumption in Southeast Asia: Context and Variation

Dog meat is consumed in parts of Southeast Asia, notably Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia (some regions), and the Philippines (limited areas). It is often tied to traditional beliefs, medicinal use, or ceremonial occasions. However, the practice is not universal across the region; many Southeast Asians do not eat dog meat, and attitudes are shifting due to animal welfare awareness, urbanization, and legal restrictions (e.g., bans in Thailand, Philippines, and parts of Indonesia). Consumption is declining overall.