An animal on your skin often says something about who you are or who you want to be. Strong like a lion, loyal like a wolf or a little mysterious like a snake. Animal tattoos have been popular for centuries and they still make an impression. In this post you'll learn what the most popular animals often mean, which style suits them and what to keep in mind for your design.
What does a lion tattoo mean?
The lion has been seen as the king of the animals for centuries. That's why a lion tattoo often stands for strength, courage and leadership. For many people a lion is also a symbol of family: a lion protects its pride. Fun fact: the lion also appears on the Dutch coat of arms. A lion is ideal for a realistic portrait on your forearm, upper arm, shoulder or back.
What does a wolf tattoo mean?
Wolves live and hunt in packs. That's why a wolf tattoo often stands for loyalty, family and connection. A lone wolf shows a different side: independence and going your own way. A howling wolf under a full moon is a much-loved design, just like a realistic wolf head in black and grey.
What does a tiger tattoo mean?
The tiger often stands for strength, courage and passion. In several Asian cultures the tiger is also seen as a protector. A tiger in motion, with its stripes and fierce gaze, works well on areas where the design can move with you, like your arm, leg or back.
What does a snake tattoo mean?
A snake sheds its skin and starts over again and again. That's why a snake tattoo often stands for change, renewal and rebirth. At the same time, a snake has something thrilling and mysterious about it. The great thing is that its shape lets a snake follow almost any part of your body: around your arm, along your leg, over your collarbone or small and elegant around your ankle.
What does a dragon tattoo mean?
The dragon is a mythical creature with very different meanings. In East Asian cultures a dragon often stands for strength, wisdom and good fortune. In European stories, the dragon is a mighty creature that guards treasure or has to be defeated. A dragon is often a larger design, for example on your back, upper arm or leg.
Which style suits it?
- Realistic or black and grey: for a lifelike animal with depth, fur and eyes that follow you. You'll need more size for this.
- Fine line: an elegant snake or a small wolf in thin lines. Nice if you want something smaller. Thinking of a tiny snake around your finger? Read Finger tattoos first, because tattoos there tend to fade quickly.
- Minimalist: just the outline of an animal, or a head drawn in a few lines.
- Symbolic: an animal combined with other elements, like a wolf with a moon or a snake with flowers.
Tips for your animal tattoo
- Size matters. A realistic animal with lots of detail needs room to stay readable for years. Your artist will advise you on the right size.
- Think about the shape of your body. A snake winding around your arm or a lion filling your shoulder looks far more natural than a design that seems stuck on.
- Bring good references. Sharp photos of the animal or the pose you have in mind help your artist create a design that suits you.
- Think long term. Big changes in your body can affect how a tattoo looks over time. Read how weight loss and weight gain influence your tattoos.
Aftercare for your tattoo
You'll get aftercare advice from us, and everything is in our tattoo aftercare instructions (PDF). In short:
- healing usually takes about 2 weeks;
- touch your tattoo as little as possible, wash it twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free soap and pat it dry;
- if you like, apply a thin layer of Bepanthen Wound Cream or another suitable tattoo aftercare cream; regular Bepanthen only once your tattoo is fully healed;
- no Sterilon or Betadine, no plasters or bandages and no tight or dirty clothing over it;
- while it heals: no swimming pools, hot tubs, natural water, saunas or steam baths (showering is fine) and no sun or tanning beds, even with sunscreen; after that, always use a high SPF;
- extreme redness, swelling, pus or severe pain? Contact your doctor straight away.
Frequently asked questions
Can a lion or wolf tattoo be small?
Yes, but a simpler design often works better then, for example in fine line or minimalist style. A realistic animal with lots of detail needs more space.
Can a large animal tattoo be done in one session?
That depends on the size and detail. Your artist will tell you beforehand how your tattoo is best planned.
How much does an animal tattoo cost?
That depends on size, detail and placement. You always get a personal quote. Read how the price of a tattoo is determined.
Ready to show your inner animal?
Piercings Works has been around since 1998 and at Reguliersbreestraat 46, right in the heart of Amsterdam, since 2004. We hold a GGD licence, have more than 2,000 reviews and our team speaks six languages. We tattoo from age 18. Walk in or book a tattoo appointment in advance and talk through your design with our artist.