The Meaning of Wolf Tattoos: What Does This Animal Represent?

The wolf is a powerful and majestic animal that has been feared and respected by humans for centuries. This animal has been the subject of many myths and legends, and wolf tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years.

If you’re thinking about getting a wolf tattoo, you should first learn about the meaning behind this animal.

The Meaning of Wolf Tattoos - What Does This Animal Represent?

Wolves have long been associated with strength, power, and freedom. They are also considered to be symbols of loyalty and family.

Whether you’re considering a wolf tattoo for its symbolism or simply because you love the look of these animals, it’s important to understand what they represent before making a final decision.

But what does the wolf mean to people? What is the symbolism behind this tattoo? Let’s find out!

The History and Meaning of a Wolf Tattoo

Let’s start with the meaning of a wolf tattoo before we get into its significance and meaning.

The wolf has been one of the most respected wild animals for thousands of years, and it has featured in a wide range of stories, novels, myths, and so on. Its meaning, on the other hand, varies from culture to culture.

For example, in North America, the wolf is regarded as one of the most intelligent animals and symbolizes spirit, divinity, life, death, and rebirth.

The majority of this symbolism is derived from the native Americans’ tribal beliefs.

In Europe, wolves are not regarded as friendly and divine; rather, they are typically seen as dangerous and are frequently used to symbolize devastation and death.

However, we must emphasize that wolves are generally respected throughout the world, apart from Europe, where they represent a distinct historical figure.

The History and Meaning of a Wolf Tattoo 2

The wolf has, nevertheless, had a significant impact on European cultural history; in the tale of Romulus and Remus, for example, the two youngsters were nurtured by a wolf and even fed by her.

However, in the Nordic culture, wolves were also feared but respected for their bravery, protection, loyalty, and wisdom.

Wolves are associated with family since they survive and hunt in packs. Packs have a territorial advantage over other predators in the area.

Wolves are also known as caring parents since they mate for life and because the entire pack will assist in the raising of the pups. As a result, a wolf tattoo can represent strong family bonds.

Wolf Tattoo Designs

There are many different styles of design that you can choose from:

Tribal
Celtic
Native American
Maori
Gothic
Cartoon
Realistic

And many different ways to depict the wolf:

Howling Wolf (check our post about the best howling wolf tattoos)
Wolf Paw Prints
Blue-Eyed Wolf
Snarling Wolf
Wolf Skull

There are also a variety of different types of wolves to consider:

Arctic Wolf
Timber Wolf
Black Wolf
Red Wolf
Gray Wolf
White Wolf

Getting your Wolf Tattoo

The most important part of getting a tattoo is finding a tattoo shop with an artist you can trust. You should also consider an ideal wolf tattoo that suits your personality.

Start with scoping out designs you like when it comes to the wolf, then have an artist take a look at them.

You can also ask for their portfolio to see if they’ve done anything similar, or if they’re able to adequately draw the wolf design you’re looking for.

Work with a tattoo artist who has expertise with the tattoos you desire and makes you feel at ease, regardless of whether it’s your first or one of many.

Ideally, they will provide you with sample art of the fantastic wolf tattoo that you’ll want them to work on. The exceptional power and wildness of the wolf will be sure to follow and inspire you for the rest of your life.

Other wolf tattoos: