Understanding The Islamic Perspective On Keeping Dogs As Pets
Dogs are widely known for their loyalty, intelligence, and companionship, making them one of the most popular animals kept as pets across the globe. However, in Islam, the topic of dog ownership is often met with curiosity and caution. What does Islamic teaching say about keeping dogs? Is it forbidden, disliked, or permissible under certain circumstances? This article aims to explore the Islamic rulings and wisdom behind the guidelines on keeping dogs, and to provide clarity on a subject that is frequently misunderstood.
1. Islam’s Kindness Towards All Creatures
“There is not an animal on the earth, nor a bird flying with its two wings, but are communities like you…”(Qur’an 6:38)
This verse reminds us that animals, including dogs, are to be respected and cared for, just as humans are part of creation.
2. Dogs in the Qur’an
This dog is honoured by being part of a group of righteous individuals who took refuge in a cave for the sake of their faith. This verse is often cited as evidence that dogs are not impure or hated creatures in Islam.
“They ask you what has been made lawful for them. Say, ‘Lawful for you are [all] good foods and [game caught by] what you have trained of hunting animals which you train as Allah has taught you.’” (Qur’an 5:4)
This clearly shows that trained dogs used for lawful purposes are permitted.
3. The Prophetic Teachings (Sunnah) on Dogs
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ confirmed what the Qur’an teaches and added further guidance. He mentioned the use of dogs for specific purposes such as guarding and hunting, and also taught cleanliness when dealing with dogs, especially their saliva.
He said: “If a dog licks the vessel of any one of you, let him wash it seven times, the first time with earth.” (Sahih Muslim)
This hadith highlights that dog saliva should be treated as impure, and proper cleaning is required. However, this does not mean the animal itself is impure, nor does it justify mistreating or fearing dogs.
4. Mercy to All Creatures — Including Dogs
“A man felt very thirsty while he was on the way. He came across a well, went down into it, drank water and came out. Then he saw a dog panting and licking mud because of excessive thirst. The man said, ‘This dog is suffering from thirst just as I was.’ So he went down the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog a drink. Allah appreciated his deed and forgave him.” (Sahih Bukhari)
This shows the high value of mercy in Islam — even towards a dog. Allah rewards those who show compassion.
5. Can Dogs Be Kept as Pets?
– Service roles (in modern contexts, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired)
However, Islam discourages keeping dogs purely as indoor pets without necessity, mainly due to hygiene and spiritual purity concerns. The Prophet ﷺ mentioned that angels do not enter homes where dogs are kept unnecessarily, emphasising the importance of maintaining a spiritually clean space.
6. Cleanliness and Boundaries
These guidelines reflect balance — between fulfilling our spiritual duties and caring for creation with mercy.
7. Avoiding Extremes and Misunderstandings
It is important not to take extreme positions — either harshness towards dogs or over-affection that ignores Islamic boundaries. Islam teaches moderation and responsibility. Mistreating any creature is a sin, while kindness is always rewarded.
8. Conclusion: A Balanced and Compassionate Approach
Islam is not a religion of hate, fear, or superstition. It is a religion of mercy, wisdom, and guidance. The Qur’an honours the role of dogs in certain contexts, and the Prophet ﷺ reminded us to treat them with kindness. At the same time, Islam promotes spiritual cleanliness and encourages believers to be mindful of their worship and surroundings.
Keeping a dog is not haram (forbidden) in all cases — it is only discouraged where there is no valid reason. With understanding, balance, and care, Muslims can honour both their faith and their duty to creation.