Pup play or puppy play involves an individual role-playing behaviours that are typical of dogs, more specifically, puppies. This review explores pup play as a type of pet-play kink, which involves animal characteristics for recreational purposes that can also be sexual. 

Pup play may imply moving around on all fours, refraining from speaking, and wearing pup-like gear (e.g., a mask and a tail). Because there is a domination-submission relationship between a pup and its handler (the person role-playing as the master), pup play is considered to be part of the BDSM realm. Historically, pup play is thought to have emerged near the end of World War II, specifically from the leather subculture in the gay community. 

Bisexual and gay cis men make up the majority of individuals who pursue pup play, or at least appear to be overrepresented in literature on the subject. While pup play is often associated with sexual practices between pup and handler, it is a form of play that may surpass sexuality. For some, including asexual people, pup play has a purely recreational aspect (e.g., pups may simply play among themselves). Some study participants describe that, beyond the possible sexual interactions involved in pup play, there is also a specific state of mind associated when imitating a puppy that brings great relaxation. This state of mind revolves around play, pleasure, and the absence of human-like responsibilities. 

Some authors have explored the subculture formed by people who engage in pup play, as social networks and other technologies  have been used to facilitate encounters and foster a sense of community. This review therefore examines a range of aspects surrounding pup play, including motivations and characteristics of people engaging in this kink, but also community and therapeutic benefits.