Dogs are not inherently haram (forbidden) in Islam, but classical Islamic teachings typically restrict keeping dogs as pets inside the home. Islam permits keeping dogs for specific purposes such as hunting, guarding livestock, and protecting crops. Keeping dogs for guarding houses, especially outside city areas, is also generally permitted if necessary. However, keeping dogs as indoor pets without these purposes is often discouraged or considered impermissible by many scholars. The Quran itself does not declare dogs haram or impure; rather, it mentions dogs positively, including the story of the People of the Cave who had a dog with them. The strict views about dogs being najis (impure) mainly come from certain Hadiths which mention that keeping dogs for non-permissible reasons may reduce a person's good deeds. Despite this, some contemporary scholars and Islamic authorities affirm that dogs are not inherently impure or haram and advocate for kind treatment of dogs. Summary:
- Keeping dogs is allowed for hunting, guarding livestock/crops, and protecting houses (especially outside cities).
- Keeping dogs solely as indoor pets for companionship is traditionally discouraged or considered impermissible by many scholars.
- Dogs themselves are not declared haram or inherently impure in the Quran.
- Kindness and fair treatment toward dogs are encouraged.
This reflects a nuanced view where dogs are considered permissible with conditions, not outright haram as pets.
