I live in a village in Isaan although we are away from the centre. We often see quite a few dogs when we go to the market. We also walk round the reservoir that's next to it and see others. I've never had a problem and rarely get barked at and if I do it usually a dig in a house were walking past.
I think the advice to stay calm is good. A stick may help in that it gives you confidence, although if a pack of dogs were to attack, which I doubt, then I don't think you'd be able to beat them all off. One thing that can help before they get too close is don't look directly at them, and if possible look down as that shows you aren't challenging them.
Good luck