Pup play, often referred to as puppy play, is a unique expression within the kink and fetish community, offering individuals a way to explore their inner puppy, find a sense of belonging, and embrace personal identities in a supportive, expressive environment. Within this community, symbols such as flags serve as important markers of identity, connection, and pride. One of the most iconic symbols within this space is the Pup Bone Pride Flag. This article delves into this flag’s origins, symbolism, and evolution, spotlighting its role in celebrating and uniting those in the pup and handler community.
The Origins of the Pup Bone Pride Flag
The Pup Bone Pride Flag traces its roots back to Kirk “Brue” Pierce, a longstanding member of the leather and pup communities. For over 25 years, Brue identified as a “gay leather dog,” connecting deeply with the leather pride flag designed by Tony DeBlase. However, as Brue embraced his pup identity, he felt the leather pride flag didn’t entirely capture the essence of his journey as a leather dog.
In search of a symbol representing the pup community as a whole, Brue initially explored using a dog’s head, but he found it too specific to particular breeds, which he felt limited the inclusivity of the design. Instead, he settled on a universally recognised icon: a dog bone. In place of the leather pride flag’s original red heart, Brue added a red dog bone to the centre of the traditional leather pride colours. This design choice helped capture a sense of pup identity that transcended dog breeds, enabling those who felt like “dogs at heart” to embrace this new symbol.
The flag was released into the public domain in May 2011, allowing all who resonated with it to display it proudly without restriction.
Design and Symbolism of the Pup Bone Pride Flag
The Pup Bone Pride Flag incorporates the original leather pride colours – black, blue, and white – along with the central red bone. Each element represents different facets of the pup and leather communities while remaining open to interpretation, much like Tony DeBlase’s original leather pride flag. Here’s a closer look at each component:
- Black Stripe: This colour ties back to the leather and BDSM community origins of pup play, signifying strength, resilience, and a connection to the leather lifestyle.
- Blue Stripe: Symbolic of trust, loyalty, and the bonds formed between pups and their handlers, the blue stripe reinforces the importance of mutual respect and companionship within the community.
- White Stripe: Representing innocence and the purity of the pup mind space, the white stripe speaks to the joy, freedom, and playfulness that are fundamental to the pup experience.
- Red Bone: The red bone in the flag’s centre acts as a universal symbol of “puphood” and inclusivity, free from breed or gender association. It highlights the affection and dedication within the community, as well as the primal, loving essence that characterises pup play.
The Evolution of the Pup Bone Pride Flag
Since its initial design, the Pup Bone Pride Flag has undergone some evolution to keep up with the growing needs and representation of the pup community. In 2016, a redesigned version of the flag appeared, prominently featuring horizontal stripes and a stylised pup head. This evolved version made its major public debut in 2017 at the inaugural Australian Pup and Handler Competition.
The newer design maintains the original colour scheme and red bone symbol while adding a nondescript pup head to promote gender and sexuality inclusivity. The stripes were made thicker and horizontal to create a distinct look separate from the leather pride flag, minimising confusion between the two at pride events. This redesign also included a symbol representing handlers within the community, acknowledging the bond between pups and their handlers without implying control, thus reinforcing individuality and the value of personal expression.
Released to the public domain in March 2017 for use as a pride flag, the evolved design remains a symbol of pup pride, unity, and inclusivity for both pups and handlers worldwide.
Significance of the Pup Bone Pride Flag in the Community
The Pup Bone Pride Flag offers a sense of validation and visibility for those who identify with the pup lifestyle. Its iconic red bone symbol and vibrant colours create a shared identity for pups and handlers, allowing individuals to proudly express their place within the community. Beyond its function as a flag, it serves as a celebration of diversity within kink culture, inviting conversations and promoting acceptance for various forms of self-expression.
Many wear the flag proudly at pride events or private gatherings, in accessories such as armbands, shirts, and pins, symbolising their journey and commitment to the community. For handlers, displaying the flag is a way to show their support and solidarity with pups, reinforcing the importance of safe, respectful, and positive dynamics within pup play.
A Message of Self-Discovery and Individuality
Reflecting on his design, Brue shared his hope that individuals in the pup community use the flag as a tool of self-discovery and authenticity. He encourages pups, handlers, and everyone within the pup community to explore their identities fully, find the symbols that resonate with their journey, and create spaces that honour individuality, safety, and respect.
The evolution of the Pup Bone Pride Flag highlights the ever-growing acceptance and visibility of kink-positive identities and communities. As more people embrace pup play, the flag reminds us of the importance of honouring personal journeys, creating safe spaces, and fostering a healthy environment for all.
Conclusion
The Pup Bone Pride Flag is a timeless symbol, representing unity, inclusivity, and the strength of community within the pup and handler world. Whether you’re a pup, handler, or ally, the flag invites you to explore, understand, and celebrate the unique ways people connect with their identities. As the flag evolves alongside the community, it will continue to be a source of pride, acceptance, and shared experience for those who embrace the spirit of pup play.
