The Meaning of Animal Tattoos

The majority of people who get 'inked' do so knowing the significance of the artwork they want. Certain shapes, colors, animals and symbols mean different things – this is the beauty of getting a tattoo. The best part is telling another person what your tattoo means. Before anyone jumps into getting a tattoo, there are a few things that need to be considered. The first, being your tattoo meaning. What do you want it to symbolize? A lot of individuals get animal tattoos, but only some know the history and meaning behind each animal.
A very popular 'ink stamp' art is the tiger. Scientists have long studied the tiger and, despite the "King of the Jungle" lion, most often than not the tiger is in fact the one who ends up winning a fight. As a result, the tiger represents strength, agility, fearlessness and dominance. Because in ancient times, only the wealthy wore tiger skin, it can also represent royalty.
Another widely tattooed animal is the canine. Dogs were seen as gods or divine in Egypt years ago. Even now, types of dogs such as Dalmatians or German Shepherds are seen as equals to firefighters and policemen, as they also risk their lives to save others. However, some individuals have pets that they love and cherish, so an exact replica of that pet would be a great idea for a tattoo. Dogs can mean loyalty to country, religion or a loved one.
Wolves are also very popular, especially in American history and culture. The wolf, much like a dog, is held in high regards by most of the population. Coming from ancient Native Indian tradition, the wolf represented a spiritual being, wise and full of discernment. Wolves are very in-tune with nature and the changing of humanity. Thus, wolves represent respect, wisdom and spirituality.
The snake is a common tattoo, usually used with another symbol such as a heart or cross. The snake, though assumed to represent evil and dishonesty, is respected in many parts of the world. In addition, the snake symbol is a nationally-recognized symbol of medicine and medicinal knowledge. Thus, the snake can represent royalty, wisdom and knowledge an also corruption.
Horses are another animal used in tattoo art. Depending on the color, they could represent a number of different things. If the horse is dark, it could represent a wild, rebellious nature. If the horse is white, a pure, calm representation can be found. If a horse is brown, it could also represent loyalty and diligence, like a working horse.
Birds are usually used with other animals or symbols in ink artwork. They represent patriotism (especially in the United States) and freedom. Like wolves, the Native American Indians also view birds as wise and in-tune with nature. Birds can also represent spirituality and connection with Mother Nature.
Flowers are often found within other symbols for a tattoo. Flowers most obviously represent beauty and love. Though most of the time roses are used, other types of flowers such as daises and sunflowers can also mean happiness, joy and patience.
Research and article by Victoria Knight and Pet-Super-Store