A robot dog named K9 dispenses hand sanitiser to shoppers — one of the more unexpected measures malls are taking as Thailand relaxes virus restrictions.

The hi-tech hound roams around the popular Central World mall in downtown Bangkok, drawing the attention of children who can get sanitiser from a bottle attached to its back.

"It's convenient for people to wash their hands, just like a preventive measure... especially in this Covid-19 situation," said AIS, the dog's owner.

K9's robot colleagues include ROC, which checks temperatures, and LISA, a customer service-bot.

"The robots are here to assist people, not to replace them," AIS insisted.

But one shopper was unconvinced, saying that she found K9's mechanical frame "creepy".

Thailand has gradually lifted restriction on businesses, which have taken precautions such as seating customers apart in restaurants or using plastic dividers.