The stray dogs of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) are not only survivors — they are also intelligent. These animals seem to understand their environment very well. Each dog knows its place in the city and guards its small area, or “territory,” carefully. Dogs living on the same street never fight with each other, even if there are many of them or if they are hungry. Instead, they lie peacefully together, curled up in groups on street corners, often looking calm and friendly Dogs Protected by Belief.
But the moment a new or strange dog enters the street, everything changes. The local dogs become alert immediately. They growl, bark, and rush toward the outsider. Loud noises follow — barking, yelping, and sometimes cries of pain. These fights can end in death for the intruding dog. Often, people later find its injured or dead body lying in the road. This shows how strictly each dog defends its own part of the city.
A Failed Attempt to Remove the Dogs
One of the former sultans of the Ottoman Empire, Abdul Aziz, wanted to modernize the city and saw the dogs as a problem. As part of his reforms, he tried to remove them from the streets. His plan was to poison the dogs using tainted meat, which policemen spread across the city. The next morning, many dogs were found dead in the streets.
However, the bodies were not cleaned up. They remained in the open, rotting in the heat. This led to a serious health crisis, likely an epidemic caused by the decaying animals. But the local people did not blame the poison or the government’s action. Instead, due to their religious beliefs, they saw the illness as a punishment from God. They believed that killing the dogs, who were innocent creatures protected by the Prophet, had brought a curse upon the city.
Because of this belief, no one has tried to kill the dogs again. In fact, the dogs have become even more respected since that time.
A Legend That Strengthened Their Status
There is an old legend that explains why the dogs of Constantinople are so deeply respected. According to the story, during the Middle Ages, the dogs saved the city. One night, enemy soldiers tried to attack in secret. But the street dogs barked loudly and woke the city’s guards. Thanks to the dogs’ warning, the city was able to defend itself successfully Private Balkan Tours.
After this event, the Sultan at the time issued a royal order. He declared that all dogs should be treated as sacred, because they had been used by God to protect the city. Since then, many people have believed that the dogs are not just animals—they are a part of divine will.
Living Monuments of the Past
Today, the dogs of Istanbul continue to live freely on the streets. They are a reminder of the city’s long history, its traditions, and its deeply rooted beliefs. Whether seen as nuisances or as protectors, these dogs have earned a place in the heart of the city—and in the memory of all who visit.
