Iran Expands Controversial Dog Walking Ban Across Major Cities

Iranian authorities have extended a ban on dog walking to at least 18 cities, highlighting the rising tension between government regulations and personal freedoms, as pet ownership quietly rebels against cultural norms.

Iranian officials have broadened a controversial ban on dog walking, imposing new restrictions across at least 18 additional cities following a similar order established in Tehran in 2019. The authorities cite public order and health concerns as primary justifications for the prohibition, which also prohibits the transportation of dogs in vehicles.

The stigma surrounding dogs in Iran dates back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, where dogs have often been deemed "unclean" by the government, representing a vestige of Western cultural influence. Yet, despite governmental disapproval, dog ownership has been on the rise, particularly among younger Iranians who view the practice as a minor act of rebellion against the rigid theocratic regime.

Cities like Isfahan and Kerman have recently implemented these bans, with local officials emphasizing "legal action" against those who defy the new regulations. Reports suggest that enforcement has been inconsistent, as many dog owners continue to walk their pets openly in Tehran and beyond, employing tactics such as late-night strolls in secluded areas to escape scrutiny.

While there is no formal national law against dog ownership, local prosecutors frequently enforce varying restrictions at the municipal level. Abbas Najafi, a prosecutor from Hamedan, branded dog walking a threat to "public health, peace and comfort," revealing a strong governmental sentiment against the practice.

Historically, Iranian pet owners have faced severe consequences, including arrests and the confiscation of their dogs. Politicians within the Islamic regime frequently denounce pet ownership, with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei describing the practice, outside of specific uses like herding or hunting, as "reprehensible." Public sentiment reflects a growing frustration among advocates who claim the police should prioritize addressing rising violent crime instead of targeting responsible dog owners.

In a broader context, pet ownership, along with activities such as attending underground parties and resisting mandatory dress codes, has come to symbolize a growing desire for personal freedoms in Iran. As tensions escalate, the discourse surrounding pet ownership continues to pose significant questions about individual rights within Iranian society.