Out of all of the things I expected from Rome (gelato, copious stringed instrument music, using bathrooms older than my own country), I have to tell you about one thing I did NOT expect. Dogs. Romans LOVE dogs. And I can't smash capslock to emphasize it enough. They really love them. Dogs are everywhere in this city; where you see people, you see dogs, and where you don't see people, you still see dogs. Dogs in Rome are not unfriendly, but curiously enough they seem.. Well, they seem Roman. Whereas in the US, it's common for people to walk around and acknowledge strangers, have small talk, smile and wave, etc., these things aren't the norm here in Rome. And it seems like the dogs have caught on to the same mannerisms. Even strays march right past you here, because small talk and casual petting just don't suit their needs. Roman dogs are strong! Roman dogs are independent! Roman dogs guard storefronts and drink from their own fountains and lead their humans, not vice-versa. Roman dogs are the foundation of this city, a foundation that will never crumble. (Also, I did learn that it wouldn't seem TOO weird for me to pet a stranger's dog. I apparently should just ask permission first. With this knowledge I'm coming for you, dogs of Rome.)