Social workers in Estonia have identified a group of homeless individuals, affectionately dubbed 'street dogs', who refuse to accept the assistance provided by social service centers. The centers, which operate around the clock, offer shelter and warm meals to anyone in need; however, some individuals choose to live on the streets despite these options. Kille Altermann, the director of the Tallinn Social Work Center, stated that Tallinn's support services are adequate enough to help everyone in need, yet some individuals prefer their current lifestyle.

According to Tallinn's street monitoring count, there are 35 people living on the streets of the capital city. Altermann emphasized that while there are ample social services and food programs available, some people still opt to remain on the streets. The reluctance of these individuals to seek help raises questions about their circumstances and preferences, implying that they may be making a conscious choice about their lifestyle rather than being unable to access available support.

Merle Liiva, the director of social health care in Tartu, corroborated Altermann's observations, underscoring that this phenomenon is not isolated to Tallinn. The challenge remains for social workers to engage with those who refuse help and understand their reasons to effectively promote the services intended for their benefit. The societal implications of this situation highlight the need for tailored approaches to assist diverse populations among the homeless, recognizing their agency and varying circumstances.