Pup play or puppy play is a form of fetishistic animal play where participants dress in dog costumes.
According to Men's Health, puppy play is "a form of consensual, adult role-play popular in the gay leather community, where people dress up and embody the characteristics of a dog".[1] This does not mean puppy play is only popular in that community or only exists there.
In puppy play, or pup play, at least one of the participants acts out canine mannerisms and behaviors, which is sometimes associated with leather culture. If there is a dominant role it can be taken by a "handler", "trainer", "master", or in the case of someone who also identifies as a pup, an "alpha". Not all "pups" or "dogs" are "alpha", some consider themselves "beta" or "omega", and as in the canine world hierarchy, "beta" can refer to someone who has both dominant and submissive or service oriented tendencies depending on the situation where "omega" generally indicates a more submissive, passive, service oriented and playful nature. Unlike other forms of animal roleplay, it is not uncommon for two or more pups to play together as equals, possibly fight for dominance, or play where one is clearly the "alpha".[2]
Puppy play is often about being playful, mischievous, cheeky and instinctive.[3] Many human puppies like to simplify their desires and motivations as they embrace the side of themselves that acts solely on instinct.[4] A great deal of animal role play occurs socially. A group of like-minded pet-players will gather at events specifically organised for social pet play. At pup play events, for example, which occur all over the world, human puppies will act like bio puppies, relaxing, playing fetch, and interacting with human handlers.
In relation to other BDSM play, a "puppy" who is "unowned" or "uncollared" can be referred to as a "stray". Many pups use a headspace when getting into a roleplay scenario known as "pup space" which allows them to take on their puppy persona more easily.[5] Other elements rooted in BDSM play involve bondage and restriction with collars, leashes, kneepads (for knee protection), harnesses, rubber suits, hoods (not needed but sometimes helps to assist with headspace and self identity) and mitts (for hand protection as well as finger usage restriction). Both sexual and non-sexual services are options that occur in the scene and should be discussed by the participants (pup / handler, beta / alpha, etc.) ahead of time so expectations are not misinterpreted. "Training" may take place in order to teach commands or tricks if both participants desire such interactions.
Groups involved in puppy play include Pup Pride Australia, which since 2015 has participated in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras[6] and has featured in an Australian TV documentary aired by the Special Broadcasting Service.[7]