Dogs are man's friends and helpers. In the minds of many, they are associated with qualities such as loyalty, courage, attentiveness and fearlessness. Therefore, it is not surprising that tattoos depicting four-legged friends are popular. In this article we will try to fully understand their meaning, history and types to make it easier for you to make your choice.
Historical images.
Despite the many positive traits of dogs, their depictions have often been controversial. Historically, they could inspire both respect and fear in the minds of people.
- In the mythologies of Ancient Greece and Egypt, dogs were considered guardians or guides between our world and the “lower” world. The Scandinavians also held a similar opinion. A striking example of this is Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the entrance to hell, or Anubis, the guide to the world of the dead.
- Among the peoples living in the territory of modern Europe, this image was more often associated with devotion and the guardian of the home.
- Native Americans treated dogs with respect, considering them healers, protectors, or even divine messengers.
- Our ancestors, the Slavs, had an ambiguous and largely mythical opinion about such drawings. For example, that images of a dog predict events, most often negative.
- For Christians, the image of dogs meant loyalty and friendliness.
- In the Islamic religion, dogs were treated coldly and prejudiced, considering that they were an “unclean” animal, necessary solely for protection.
In modern history, dog tattoo designs have lost most of their mythical images. It is generally accepted that the dog is a symbol of conservatism, attentiveness and confidence. But how true this statement is is for you to judge.
Meaning of a dog tattoo.
Dog tattoos are usually small in size. Most often they are placed on the arm, leg, shoulder blade or back of the neck. Such drawings are not tied to a specific technique or direction, so it is sometimes difficult to interpret their original meaning intended by the author and bearer.
The main meanings of such tattoos are directly related to the positive qualities of the dogs themselves. Namely: devotion, courage, determination. Therefore, such designs can mainly be found on men.
It is believed that a person with a dog tattoo on his arm does not have such negative traits as hypocrisy, cunning and meanness. Its bearer is always ready to help out in difficult times. Moreover, such a drawing indicates an open and friendly attitude towards people.
The meaning of a tattoo can change dramatically depending on the breed of the fermented dog. Thus, fighting or hunting dogs are a sign of strength, determination, and in some cases aggression. Small breeds, on the other hand, indicate openness, kindness and vulnerability.
A dog paw tattoo symbolizes the indelible mark that someone has left on your life. Therefore, such sketches can often be found among girls.
To sum it up.
A dog tattoo will be an excellent choice for open, friendly, dynamic, courageous and responsible people. It will help you stand out and show off your bright personality. The main thing is to carefully select the sketch and take the time to learn about dog breeds.
The image of a dog is primarily associated with loyalty and devotion. This animal has accompanied man since ancient times, having managed during this time to become a faithful companion in all spheres of his life. Faithful dogs serve in the army, help law enforcement officers and rescuers, make the difficult life of people with disabilities easier, work in delivery services, run in sleds across the endless snowy deserts of the northernmost latitudes, accompany hunters... These smart and devoted animals have even been in space. Some people cannot imagine life without a four-legged friend. It is no wonder that the image of this beast occupies a special place. This is not to say that “Dog” is a tattoo that is too common. It is chosen by those whose lives are somehow connected with this animal.
True friend
Dog tattoos are often done in a realistic style. As a rule, the prototype is not just a beautiful animal, but the tattoo bearer’s own pet. In addition to the portrait of the dog, on such a tattoo you can often notice his name or date of birth. “Dog” is more often chosen by men. But we can often see cute dogs with golden fur on girls. And some get a tattoo in memory of a four-legged companion who is no longer around.
Power and authority
Some dog breeds evoke completely different associations. For example, fighting dogs are not only strong, but also often aggressive. They are always ready to stand up for themselves and those they love. Often a portrait of a pit bull or Rottweiler speaks of the tough character of the owner of the “Dog” tattoo. The meaning is related to the nature of the breed that is depicted in the picture. A bared mouth, saliva dripping from fangs, an evil gaze - all this often indicates that we are dealing with a person with a difficult character, whom it is better not to anger.
Dreams that came true
Not everyone has the opportunity to have a pet at home. And some breeds cost incredible amounts of money. Often those who dream of a dog paint a portrait of it on their body. So the dream seems closer. But good thoughts are material. And this thought gives hope for its real implementation.
Memory of an army friend
The army theme occupies a special place among all tattoos dedicated to dogs. Not a single border guard, for example, can imagine life without a reliable dog. If you meet a person whose shoulder or back is decorated with a portrait of a German Shepherd surrounded by a scattering of shell casings or several striped posts, know that this is someone who served in the border troops. Service dogs are often accompanied by representatives of other branches of the military, for example, sappers or fighters against drug trafficking. For them, “Dog” is a tattoo in memory of the service and of those who were nearby in difficult times, standing shoulder to shoulder.
Styles
We often see the image of a faithful dog in a variety of styles. Fans of old-school tattoos, where the image of an animal can be decorated with hearts, ribbons with inscriptions, and crosses, are very fond of this plot. Amateurs depict a variety of breeds, not skimping on bright colors.
In dogs made in the steam-punk style, we can notice aviation helmets, monocles, lace frills and hanging from chains. Biomechanics is also partial to these animals, thanks to which muscular canine bodies acquire such additions as microcircuits protruding from under the skin or robotic limbs . But the most popular style of depicting beloved pets has been and remains realism.
Places of application
“Dog” is a tattoo that can be applied to almost any place. If the sketch is a portrait, it will need space. After all, the master will be able to work out every detail. Therefore, such scenes are most often depicted on the chest, shoulder blades, back, thigh or shoulder. Figures of small dogs decorate ankles, wrists, and the back of the neck.
When choosing a sketch, consider whether the image will be distorted by your movements. Listen to the master's advice and always follow it. Then you will get exactly the result you dreamed of.
The dog tattoo is one of the most popular men's tattoos. Its meaning depends on what breed of animal is depicted. If the dog is a service dog (bull terrier, Doberman), then the tattoo is a strong amulet for its owner, because the dog faithfully serves the person and protects him from the invasion of uninvited guests. A sketch of a tattoo with an image of a dog is often done in color, and the image is applied to the shoulder, thigh, chest or back.
In this case, an animal is depicted with a bared mouth, running or rushing at the offender. A tattoo depicting a shepherd has a friendlier tone and speaks of the best qualities of its owner: loyalty, strength and perseverance.
A dog is a strong and loyal animal, and among different peoples it has always been considered one of man’s best companions - in hunting, war and in peaceful life. In Greek myths, the three-headed Cerberus escorted souls to the kingdom of the dead.
The ancient Slavs believed that a dog could predict future events, and in Christian and Celtic culture it is a symbol of loyalty, friendliness and sincerity. The American Indians believed that a dog could heal a person, so its image was also endowed with these properties.
Another meaning of a dog tattoo is the memory of a living or deceased four-legged friend. Sentimental men and women get similar tattoos with a design and the name of their pet. So did Miley Cyrus, the famous singer, who adorned her body with an image of her dog Floyd.
According to legend, a black dog guarded the entrance to the afterlife, so its image symbolizes witchcraft and curses.
Despite the belligerence of the beast, girls also choose a tattoo with a picture of a dog. But these tattoos are more touching than scary! Very young girls prefer tattoos depicting touching and funny dogs: dachshunds, spaniels or small helpless puppies. Smiling, decorated with bows, they are the very friendliness and tenderness.
Recently, it has become popular to get a dog tattoo “with a 3D effect” - the image is so realistic that it seems that the dog is about to jump! Such a sketch is made very bright and multi-colored, with clarity not inferior to a photograph.
Dog tattoo video
Below are photos of dog tattoos from different artists.
DOG TATTOO, TATTOO MEANING
Devotion, protection, vigilance - symbolism, the source of which lies mainly in the Celtic and Christian traditions. In more primitive and ancient ideas, the dog was associated with the underworld - as its guardian and as a guide delivering the souls of the dead there (for example, the mythical ancient Greek Cerberus, the terrifying three-headed dog at the entrance to hell). Three-headed dogs also accompanied Hecate, the goddess of death, who often visited graves and crossroads and in whose honor the ancient Greeks sacrificed dogs. Other symbols of aggression include the Scandinavian hellhound Garm and the black dog of Satan.
However, usually the symbolism associated with dogs and death is more positive. The fact that they accompanied man every day and everywhere, and the knowledge attributed to them of the world of spirits, became the reason that they were considered good guides in the afterlife. They are found in this role both in ancient Egyptian mythology as companions of the god Anubis, and as guides of human souls across the River of Death in Mayan myths. The Aztec dog god led the sun through the darkness of the underworld and was reborn with it every morning. Dogs were often sacrificial animals - in honor of their deceased masters or as intermediaries in communication with the gods, as in the Iroquois sacrifice of the white dog. The souls of the dead were in closer contact with dogs in ancient times in Central Asia and Persia, where the bodies of the dead were fed to dogs. This custom led to the Semitic and Muslim view of the dog as an unclean, vile, greedy animal, used only as a guard (with the exception of hounds, which understandably had a higher status). In many cultures, the dog was both a symbol of contempt and devotion, which is ingrained in modern idiom - this contradiction is reflected in the origin of the word "cynic" from the Greek word "kuon" (dog), an insult towards the followers of the philosopher Diogenes, illustrating their aggressive rudeness , but then adopted as a suitable designation for their role as guardians of morality. The name “Dominicans” for the monastic order is translated from Latin as “dogs of the Lord” and directly symbolizes the mission of protecting Christian dogmas. In Christianity, the dog is also a suitable symbol for the Lord's shepherd, and therefore it was the emblem of the clergy.
Dogs are symbols of mercy in Celtic art, companions of many goddesses - patroness of healing, as well as hunters and warriors. Dogs are a symbol of protection in Japan, as well as in China, although there they may have a reputation as demonic creatures, especially in the cosmic symbolism of eclipses and other frightening natural phenomena; they can be a symbol of both the sun and the wind. An obedient dog is a symbol of loyalty to the law, although Buddha said that those who live like a dog will turn into a dog after death. In Hinduism, dogs are considered companions of the god of death, Yama, which again brings us back to the connection between the dog and the afterlife.
Elsewhere, dogs were often directly associated with gods, especially in Africa. In Melanesia, in North American and Siberian legends, the dog's intelligence made it a symbol of inexhaustible inventions, the creator or thief of fire. Like other similar legendary figures, dogs were cursed and praised. Some legends claim that due to a dog's mistake, a person lost the gift of immortality.
Animal tattoos are very popular among both men and women. The dog is a symbol of loyalty, friendship, courage and sincerity. This tattoo is most often tattooed by men, however, among women there are those who like such a tattoo. Also, such an image on the human body is perceived as a talisman or amulet. The meaning of a tattoo varies depending on the breed of dog, so when choosing a design for a tattoo, you should be extremely careful.
The guys
Men with a dog tattoo are distinguished by their courage, bravery and strength of character.. If a dog is depicted in a demonic style, the meaning of such a tattoo is seen as a symbol of fear guarding the borders of two worlds.
A tattoo with a picture of a dog is suitable for sociable and confident people.
Men prefer to get a tattoo in the form of a dog's head with a grin. The meaning of such a tattoo: instilling fear in others, physical strength, self-confidence.
The most common places for application:
- Back;
- Breast;
- Shoulder.
Most often, a tattoo with the image of a dog is performed in the style of realism, new school, sketch, and also in combination with other styles. A tattoo can be supplemented with an ornament or other designs, which practically does not change its meaning.
Among women
Girls very rarely prefer tattoos with the image of a dog. Most often, such tattoos are made in a minimalist style and are applied to the wrist, neck or ankle. Cartoon style tattoos are also common. Such a tattoo on a woman’s body indicates that its owner has a strong character, is faithful and sociable. A tattoo with a dog is absolutely not suitable for closed and insecure people.
It happens that female representatives dilute the image of a dog with additional elements: flowers, butterflies, ornaments.
In places of detention
The meaning of prison tattoos is significantly different from ordinary ones. For example, the face of a dog depicted on the body of a prisoner means “Cop bitch from the press hut”. This tattoo is applied to the back of someone who abused his cellmates.
Value depending on dog breed
The most common tattoos depicting the following breeds are:
- Doberman– such a tattoo has long symbolized a connection with the other world, so for many people who are interested in magic and extrasensory perception, it is a kind of talisman.
- Shar Pei– such a tattoo symbolizes high intelligence, independence and self-esteem.
- Pitbull– owners of such tattoos must have physical and moral strength. Some people choose this breed for a tattoo because they own such dogs. Most often they depict the head of a pit bull, but sometimes they get a tattoo with a dog depicted in full growth. It happens that a pit bull is depicted on a tattoo in a cartoon style; such a tattoo denotes the kindness, sincerity and love of its owner for animals.
- Bulldog– means that the owner of the tattoo is balanced and has self-control. Bulldog is a symbol of fidelity and sincerity. This tattoo is suitable for calm people.
- Pug– a tattoo with a dog of this breed is suitable for active and sociable people who have their own opinion and weight in society.
It happens that people get tattoos of their pet in its memory to show love and respect for man's friend. Often such tattoos are accompanied by the date of birth and death of the pet.
In general, tattoos with the image of a dog are not very common and are quite rare. When choosing a tattoo, you need to rely not only on its appearance, but also on its meaning.
