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From the spiky, reptilian scales of a dragon to the feathery wings of a phoenix, animals have always been a popular choice for tattoos. But there’s more to them than just a pretty design. A unique animal tattoo can be a great way to commemorate a beloved pet or even symbolize something deeper about yourself. Whether you want to get inked with a creature that represents strength and power, like a tiger or a horse, or independence and freedom, like a butterfly or an eagle, there’s one for everyone!
But it’s not just their symbolism that makes them so appealing. Animals can represent different things to different people, making them an incredibly personal choice when it comes time to decide on your next tattoo. You can get one that will bring out your inner animal lover, whether that means getting a majestic dragon on your leg or an adorable little squirrel on your wrist.
A cool animal tattoo is a perfect way to show off your love for pets or particular species and can also serve as a great conversation starter. But there are so many animal tattoos to choose from it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best animal tattoos to provide inspiration for your design!
Simple and subtle or bold and dramatic? There’s no shortage of options! We’ve gathered some of our favorite animal tattoo ideas that will make you want to book an appointment with your tattoo artist as soon as possible!
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#1
Mini Giraffe
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#2
Zebra Tattoo
#3
Rabbits And Peaches
#4
Bird Nest Tattoo
#6
Little Ducky For Cassy
Shyla Bouche 2 years ago
I like how the feet are crooked, like a clumsy newborn trying to stand.
#7
My Beautiful Red Panda, Done By Vivamorta
Weasel Wise 2 years ago
It's super cute but I got extra excited cuz for half a second I thought it was holding a knife. 🤣
El Cucuy 2 years ago
Probably best that it's not a knife. If you look closely, you can see that the tat covers up what appears to be self-harm scars.
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Dog Memorial On Rob Today! This Is Jack Looking At Him On The Bed
#9
Octopus Tiger
#11
Cute Little Hedgehog
#12
How Cute
#14
Deer Tattoo
#15
Clément's Little Pink Flamingo
#17
Sleepy Cat
#18
I Had A Great Time Thanks To Your Kindness
#20
Hand Drawing Tattoo, Sea Turtle
#21
Tiger vs Wolf Chest Piece
Werner Hertling 1 year ago
Ich finde das ist eine sehr gute Tattoowirung , auch die Arbeit war sicher sehr Zeit aufwendig. Nur den Abschluss hätte ich nicht wie ein BH enden lassen ausser es geht mit einem Berg weiter! Aber sonnst wie gesagt Super!
Kyndra Murphy 2 years ago
Now if that's not a fabulously well tattoo I don't know what is. Both animals are done perfect.
#23
Animal Tattoo
#25
Sun And Moon Fox Tattoo
Jeff Mcelfresh 2 years ago
Nope! It's more to the back and it's hidden behind the tail!
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#27
Sketchy Bear Tattoo I Did Weeks Ago In Montreal
Weasel Wise 2 years ago
I can hear it yelling, "I want tacos!". Little known fact, carrying tacos will keep you safe from hunger and bears.
#28
Got My Animal Sleeve Worked On This Weekend
#30
Pet Tattoo
Jeff Mcelfresh 2 years ago
I think it's supposed to look that way. Just like the flowers and the bone. It looks like it was supposed to mimic what crayon looks like.
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#31
Birds Are One Of My Faves To Tattoo
#32
Miranda De Tigre
#33
Owl And Owl 2 Healed After A Month
#35
Small Simple Animal Staples
#38
Kopsnij Sachetkę, Manager
#39
Delinquent Beaver, On The Side Of The Knee
#40
Tiger Tattoo
#41
Based Off My Original Drawing
Lydia 2 years ago
I would love to see some colour, or some background or shading or detail in the head. Feels a bit unfinished. So far so good though :)
over it already 2 years ago
Color & position of koi have a lot of symbolism in Japanese art (? maybe just tattoo art? I think it's more widely applicable. I learned this many many moons ago.)
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#45
Minimalist Portrait Of Nadia's Dogs
Legoinsinööri 2 years ago
Shows the challenge some can't handle on small and simple images. Just the eyes give them a whole other look.
#46
The Start Of My Animal Sleeve
#47
Baby Elephant Tattoo
#48
Bunnicula The Vampire Bunny
Moon Cheese 2 years ago
The Celery Stalks at Midnight! I have been transported to my childhood
Jeff Mcelfresh 2 years ago
Oh my gosh, the detail that it sucked the pigment out of the carrots is amazing
#57
I Love Tattooing Animals And Especially When They Give Me Freedom To Cover Up An Old Tattoo
#59
Sparkle Flame Tiger
weneedrain 2 years ago
Fantastic! The idea to split the face at that geometric line is great and the differing eyes make me want to stare at it
#61
Bunny And A Ladybug
#63
Happy Caturday
Katya Davidson 2 years ago
If you are ever looking for a companion tattoo, I suggest google to see all the cheetahs that have emotional support dogs
#74
Small Spider Tattoo
#75
Cutest Little Cow For Sara
#76
A Leopard Realistic Tattoo Of 10cm I’ve Made
#79
Seahorse Tattoo
#81
Here I Connected Two Existing Animal Tattoos
#85
Centipede By Teresa Sharpe, Unkindness Art, Richmond, VA
#86
My Animal Tattoo In Progress
Weasel Wise 2 years ago
Lion is saying to the leopard, "I told you not to take a bite! We're not supposed to eat apples!"
Jeff Mcelfresh 2 years ago
And the leopard is sticking their tongue out at the lion because they don't care
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