Question:
Me n my wife we bought a house , We have no security camera here, we live in a very personal place there and we both work during day n my wife once every week she works night shift, Can we keep a DOG as a guardian shaykh?
Answer:
As-Salamu ‘Alaikum,
In Islam, the permissibility of keeping a dog as a guardian or for security purposes is subject to certain conditions. Generally, dogs are considered impure in Islamic jurisprudence, and keeping them without a valid reason is discouraged. However, there are exceptions, and security can be considered a valid reason.
If you live in an area where security concerns are significant, and you require a guard dog, scholars may permit it under certain conditions. Here are some general guidelines:
Necessity: Keeping a dog should be out of necessity, such as security concerns in a secluded area.
Isolation: The dog should be kept in an isolated area, like a specific part of the yard or a kennel, to minimize contact with living quarters.
Cleanliness: The impurity of the dog’s saliva is a consideration. Be cautious about areas where the dog might lick, and ensure that those areas are properly cleaned if necessary.
Purpose: The dog should be kept for a legitimate purpose, such as guarding the property. It’s not recommended to keep a dog as a pet without a valid reason.
Dr. Senad Agic, Imam
SABAH – Chicago
9920 Grand Ave
Franklin Park, IL 60131
