Tattoo Ideas to Honor Your Dog

We love our dogs and want to keep them with us forever. As a professional dog trainer and passionate dog lover, my arms are filled with dog tattoos. As my dogs pass away, I have their portrait tattooed onto my skin, so they’re always with me. Now, tattoos are not for everyone, but if you adore permanent skin art and would like to pay tribute to your dog, check out these meaningful dog tattoo ideas.

1. Portrait

Once my dogs have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, my biggest fear is forgetting what their faces look like. Many pet owners choose to have their dog’s portrait tattooed onto their body using different artistic styles. Personally, I’m drawn to realism, but I’ve witnessed stunning watercolor, traditional and new school dog tattoos as well.

Choose your favorite photo of your dog, and find an amazing tattoo artist who specializes in portrait tattoos. You will never regret it.

2. Dog’s Name

Having your dog’s name tattooed across your fingers, arm or back is a wonderful memorial dog tattoo idea. With hundreds of script and font styles, it’s important to find something that reminds you of your dog.

Take your time and choose carefully, then find a tattoo artist who specializes in script. If you’re still stuck, tell your tattoo artist about your dog and he or she will draw up an amazing script to capture your dog’s essence.

3. Paw Print

Paw prints are easily the most versatile dog memorial tattoo idea. You can keep it simple or make it very personal. Some pet owners have their dog’s actual paw print tattooed onto their bodies. They achieve this by placing their dog’s paw into paint and creating a custom paw print stamp. One of my friends collects tiny paw prints after their dog passes away and gets it tattooed with their dog’s initial inside.

4. Quote

For some pet owners, quote tattoos are a meaningful way to mourn their dog’s passing. Choose a beautiful quote that makes your heart sing, and partner with a tattoo artist who specializes in script. A few popular quotes that will bring a tear to your eye include:

• Forever would not have been enough.
• I’ll meet you in the light.
• Until we meet again.
• Paw prints left on my soul.
• Paw prints across my heart.
• Forever in my heart.
• Your wings were ready, but my heart was not.
• Always in my heart.

5. Custom

Collect your favorite quotes, photos and paw print tattoo ideas, and bring them to your tattoo artist. It’s important to remember tattoo artists are truly gifted, and can combine your thoughts and ideas into a magnificent custom dog tattoo. Instead of choosing something literal, choose a simple image that reminds you of your dog, such as a rose, color or symbol.

Memorial dog tattoos are deeply personal. They don’t have to be easy to read or easily understandable; they just need to remind you of your dog.