Dogs in Islam (For Reverts)

Introduction

Dogs may be a large part of our lives, especially in North America. Many potential reverts may be concerned about what will happen to their furry companion if they decide to convert. In this article we will cover where Islam generally falls on dog ownership, and our personal experience and opinions for reverts who already have a dog including what their options might be. Keep in mind this opinion is from my personal research.

What does the Quran say

There are generally two exceptions for keeping your canine friend; Hunting and Protection herding and protection. So how do we know this? Let’s take a look at what the Quran says about dogs. There are three times dogs are mentioned;

In Al Ma’idah; Chapter 4

“4. They ask you what is permitted for them. Say, “Permitted for you are all good things, including what trained dogs and falcons catch for you.” You train them according to what God has taught you. So eat from what they catch for you, and pronounce God’s name over it. And fear God. God is Swift in reckoning.”

Here, we can see that the Quran permits us to eat what trained dogs catch for us. Obviously, we can have dogs for the purpose of hunting.

Okay so we know that hounds for the purpose of hunting are permitted, but where do we find the information about dogs for protection?

In Al-Kahf, Chapter 18.

“18. You would think them awake, although they were asleep. And We turned them over to the right, and to the left, with their dog stretching its paws across the threshold. Had you looked at them, you would have turned away from them in flight, and been filled with fear of them.”

And

Chapter 22

“22. They will say, “Three, and their fourth being their dog.” And they will say, “Five, and their sixth being their dog,” guessing at the unknown. And they will say, “Seven, and their eighth being their dog.” Say, “My Lord knows best their number.” None knows them except a few. So do not argue concerning them except with an obvious argument, and do not consult any of them about them.”

In chapter 18, we can see that the members in the cave have a dog “across the threshold”. Meaning that the dog was stretching at the cave entrance, protecting the men asleep. Further on in chapter 22, when guessing the number of men, they would include the dog in their estimates. Showing that dogs are in fact not to be dismissed, but considered among us.

Of the three references to dogs in the Quran, they are all positive associations. There are some who say that dogs are filthy animals, and if they lick you, that it ruins your ablution and you must perform Wudu again. There is no evidence of this, as you are permitted to eat the catch from a trained dog, the catch that has been in the dog’s mouth.

What is recommended by the Prophet Muhammedﷺ is to; Wash the area seven times and an eighth time with earth.

Personal Opinions and Experience

With that knowledge of the references in the Quran about dogs, Muslims are also told to show active kindness and concern for welfare towards animals, as well as, we will be held accountable for our cruelty towards animals. Keeping this in mind, dogs often form important bonds with their owners. Meaning that sometimes, giving up your furry friend may actually hurt their welfare mentally and may in fact even be cruel.

As a revert who has dogs and of the personal belief, prior to Islam that; dogs should be kept with a purpose such as hunting and protection. It was easy for me to not worry about keeping my hounds, as all the dogs I have are purpose-bred. But some potential reverts and new reverts may be concerned about giving their dogs away, so here is some advice if you wish to keep your dog because you are afraid for its future well-being or that giving them away will hurt them mentally.

-Keep them out of your home, outdoors in a dog house is fine.

-If you cannot keep them outside(We live in Northern Alberta, with -50 Degree winters) Have a designated area for them and keep them out of the areas you pray and eat.

-You will need to maintain a higher level of hygiene and cleanliness. As you  must remove dog hair from your clothes before praying, you need to ensure your home is kept in immaculate condition.

Conclusion

To summarize, dogs in Islam are permitted with a purpose of hunting or protection. Keep in mind that there should be an actually credible reason for a protection dog. (eg. Herding or personal protection)

In my personal interpretation of the Quran, and keeping in mind concern for animal welfare, You can keep your canine companion(Who doesn’t serve a purpose) because you are concerned for their well-being if you do give them away. If you cannot keep them outside, for whatever reason, keep them out of the areas you pray and eat.

In conclusion, I hope this article finds those potential or new reverts who are worried about their fluffy friend. Keep in mind you should do more research if you are still doubtful. Thank you for reading.