95 dog tattoos: best designs and meaning

Dogs have been loyal companions of man for at least 40 years, but they have not strayed far from their origins like wild wolves. No other animal could capture our love and imagination as much as these wonderful creatures.

In many cultures around the world, dogs are considered part of the family. They are trained to take part in ceremonies and help us with our daily tasks. Some farmers train their dogs to help them work on the farm, chasing away unwanted people and hunting certain prey. This tradition continues even in the highest spheres of society. Hunting on Fox in England it is a sport reserved only for the royal family and the wealthy. It is a tradition that dates back to 16 - ^th century.

From Cerberus to Lassie dogs have always been comrades, friends or defenders the human race. Dogs are often considered protectors of the soul and, as a result, guardians of the ethereal plains. Anubis - the ancient Egyptian god of death, and Annun's dogs  guard the gates of the Welsh underworld. Garmr guarded the gate Helheim in Scandinavian traditions, and in Mayan and Aztec cultures, the dog was buried along with the sacrifice of a human sacrificed to bring it to the world of the dead. It is believed that dogs herald the approach of death, mainly when they howl in the night.

Of course, who could forget that Lassie saved little Timmy? Dog lovers around the world can attest to the loving and dedicated nature of these animals. After the devastating earthquake in Japan in 2011, we heard many stories of dogs that, despite the danger, refused to abandon their owners. Unsurprisingly, they are the most popular service animals for people with disabilities.

The meaning of a dog tattoo

Man's best friend has many qualities , including:

• Loyalty, friendship and camaraderie
• Protection and the role of the guardian
• Sense of resources
• Obedience
• Intelligence
• Community and family
• Dominance and strength (for aggressive breeds)

Tattoo options

Dog tattoos come in all colors and sizes (from red dogs to cartoons and pink poodles) and can contain a wide variety of design elements. You can choose a traditional Celtic symbol or just a photo of your favorite four-legged friend. The most popular dog tattoos are:

1. Tattoos with footprints of dogs.

Some dog lovers choose to use the footprints of their dear Fido as the main figure in their artwork, made in honor of their four-legged friend, to express their love for him and their bond with him. Sometimes a dog print tattoo is part of the grief process that follows the loss of a loved one.

2. Tattoos of dog breeds:

Dog lovers often prefer this or that breed. Whether you love Pitt Bulls or Rottweilers, Greyhounds, Poodles, Chivawas, Belgian Shepherds or Bassets, each breed has characteristics that owners truly identify with. They often get tattoos to pay tribute to their beloved Fido.