Hundism

Hundism is a contemporary ethical and spiritual movement that centers on the relationship between humans and dogs, emphasizing companionship, care, and the moral responsibilities people have toward canines. While diverse in practice, Hundism commonly stresses compassion, stewardship, and service to animals as a moral aim.

Hundism emerged in the late 20th century among dog-rescue and animal-welfare communities in North America and Europe. It developed through informal study groups, shelters, and online forums, without a single founder. By the early 21st century, local congregations and study circles had formed in several countries.

Followers share the belief that dogs have intrinsic value and that humans owe them humane treatment, shelter, and medical care. A central idea, sometimes called the Pack Ethic, frames loyalty, cooperation, and care as extending beyond human circles to animals and the wider community.

Practices typically include rescue and fostering of dogs, humane education, volunteer work at shelters, and daily routines that prioritize canine well-being. Some groups observe rituals such as group dog walks or meals shared with dogs, and reflective readings drawn from canine-focused writings.

There is no single canon; adherents refer to a body of writings known as the Canine Covenant or The Canine Canon, alongside contemporary essays on animal welfare. Common symbols include paw prints, collars, and imagery of tails in motion.

Scholarly and public reception treats Hundism as a humane philosophy or a new religious movement rather than a strictly dog-worship tradition. It remains heterogeneous, with varied practices and organizational forms across communities.