The elephant goad, bullhook, or ankus (from Sanskrit aṅkuśa or ankusha) is a tool employed in the handling and training of elephants. It consists of a hook (usually bronze or steel) which is attached to a 60–90 cm (2.0–3.0 ft) handle, ending in a tapered end.The cities of Los Angeles and Oakland, California, USA, have banned the use of bullhooks.

Nossov and Dennis (2008: p. 16) state:

Fabrication and construction

The handle can be made of any material, from wood to ivory, depending on the wealth and opulence of the owner. Contemporary bullhooks which are used for animal handling generally have handles made of fibreglass, metal, plastic, or wood.

The elephant goad is found in armouries and temples all across India, where elephants march in religious processions and perform in various civil capacities. They are often quite ornate, being decorated with gemstones and engravings to be appropriate for the ceremonies in which they are used.

Iconography

The elephant goad is a polysemic iconographic ritual tool in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism, in the inclusive rubric of Dharmic Traditions.