Iran Enforces Dog Walking Ban Amid Cultural Concerns

Reactions are mixed as Iranian authorities crack down on dog ownership, linking it to Western influence and religious beliefs.

In Iran, the long-standing ban on dog walking, initially instituted in 2019, has seen a resurgence in enforcement as officials in over 20 cities vow to take stronger measures against dog owners. The renewed crackdown was prompted by local prosecutors who identify dog walking, alongside transporting dogs in vehicles, as significant threats to public health and safety.

Mohammad Hossein Doroudi, the prosecutor for Mashhad, echoed this sentiment recently, stating, “Dog walking is a clear crime.” This highlights a growing trend among lawmakers who are reasserting their position against what they see as an infringement of societal norms.

For many, the perception that dog ownership signifies Western cultural encroachment adds an extra layer of complexity. Islamic teachings play a crucial role in the government's stance as dogs are labeled “najes,” or impure, according to religious beliefs. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had previously issued a fatwa clarifying the implications of dog ownership, stating that dog saliva and fur can render individuals and their surroundings impure, thereby invalidating prayers.

While enforcement had been lax over the past two years, local officials are now adopting a more rigid approach. In Mashhad, violators are first given a warning but can face fines or confiscation of their pets if they do not comply with the regulations.

As the crackdown unfolds, the debate over dog ownership in Iran continues to evoke a spectrum of emotions from the public, with discussions around cultural identity, religious practices, and personal freedom taking center stage.