![]() ( 5) However, dogs are honored by the Chinese zodiac. There, dogs are farmed for meat, and festivals are even held in which dog meat is sold and celebrated. In China, the relationship that people have with dogs is a bit more complex. All in all, however, Native American cultures favor dogs and tend to depict them as symbols of friendship, virtue, courage, and loyalty. Rarely, some negative features were associated with the dogs, as depicted in various folktales. Dogs are sometimes depicted as gullible, easily distracted, or even as tattletales, perhaps for their habit of barking noisily. ![]() The fierce guardianship and self-sacrifice associated with the spirit of the dog led the Cheyennes to name their highly respected warriors the “Dog Soldiers.” ( 4) These warriors were responsible for protecting and guarding the villages, and were considered to be fearsome, just, and deeply important. Occasionally, dogs were used as clan animals and as symbols to represent the strength of the tribe. People who mistreated dogs were harshly punished, while those who showed kindness to these fantastic animals were rewarded. This is why many Native American stories and legends are related to the proper treatment of dogs. Some Native American cultures associate the dog with protection, unconditional love, and loyalty. A strong belief among some Native Americans was that the Great Spirit spoke to them through animals, and that these creatures were considered their brothers and sisters. Dogs were almost always present as guides, hunting companions, and camp guards. ( 2) To understand what dogs represent spiritually, we must first consider the roles that dogs have played in Native American tribes. ![]() ![]() The dog is a prevalent symbol amongst many Native American tribes. Dogs remind people of the importance of enjoying life. There will always be challenging times, but dogs remind us that a life without fun is no life at all. Many great artists have painted scenes of dogs hunting. Dogs are often symbolic of love and domesticity.ĭogs may also represent sociability and cooperation.īecause of their persistence, dogs can also be associated with endurance and perseverance. Many Renaissance portraits feature important figures posing alongside their beloved canine companions. The symbolism of dogs plays an important role in art history where dogs represent devotion, fidelity, and faith. ( 1)Ī Faithful companion and reliable protector, the dog is also a symbol of loyalty, honesty, and companionship. Due to their closeness with humans and their uniquely social natures, dogs are rich with spiritual meaning and appear in a number of myths and traditions.ĭogs are a powerful symbol of unconditional love, loyalty, and protection. The symbolism of the dog is associated with unconditional love and loyalty. Dogs are often referred to as “man’s best friend.” They are amongst the most beloved animals in the world, and have had important relationships with humanity since the dawn of civilization.
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