70+ Pitbull Tattoo Designs & Meanings – For the Dog Lovers (2019)
Among all the dog breeds in the world, the pitbull has been one of the most popular. It has been associated with both good and bad qualities, which is probably why it’s so popular.
The term ‘pit bull’ is not an actual dog breed, though, instead it’s the name given to dogs with a certain physical appearance. Some of the formal breeds were actually created by crossbreeding bulldogs and terriers.
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In the past, pitbulls were known for their involvement in blood sports, which included dogfights, bear-baiting and bull-baiting. These sports are illegal now, although still done illegally like the Michael Vick case.
In any case, this history of pit bulls in such sports gave them a bad rep, plus all the cases of dog attacks. When trained, however, pitbulls can be very gentle and also indicate a very high intellect.
Meaning
The pitbull has both positive and negative connotations and you can use it in a tattoo to represent either. For example, pitbulls were kept in the past for the sole purpose of dogfighting, which they did to the death.
Although negative, this could also mean that you are a fighter yourself, and are willing to die fighting for your beliefs.
A pitbull also represents perseverance, it is said that once they lock in their jaws onto something, it is very difficult to make them let go. This idea can be implied in a pitbull tattoo to signify your own toughness in life, and a reminder not to let go of something you want.
Among dog breeds, the pit bull can also be considered royal because of its history. These dogs have had high profiles in the past and are used today in military service. They are known for their intelligence, courage and loyalty, which is why they are favored for such positions.
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Placement
A pitbull tattoo is only as good as the details you put into it. Therefore it would be difficult to fit such a tattoo on your wrist or ankle. They are usually worn on the arm and perhaps on the shoulder blade where there is enough space to fit in a pit bull’s head.
You can further reduce the size of the tattoo by using only an outline instead of filling it with details.
For a depiction of the entire pitbull’s body, you would have to wear the tattoo on the back where the details can be accurately drawn. Other appropriate positions could be the thigh or foot, also depending on the level of detail and how private you want the tattoo to be.
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Types of pitbull tattoos
- Mean and cute countenance
To express the pitbull’s rage and viciousness, you can make the head of the pit bull set into an aggressive position. This design is accomplished by adding teeth and making the pit bull look like it’s about to attack.
This design applies the past use of pit bulls in dog fighting and would reflect the same for the wearer of the tattoo. For example, if you’re the aggressive type, this tattoo would indicate your own character.
On the other hand, some pitbull tattoos can also be lovely and adorable. This is usually after they’ve been trained, but it doesn’t mean that they still can’t attack. Such a design would represent the gentle outlook people see in you, and also a warning that you too are ready to attack when provoked.
- Owner’s pet
If you truly love your pet and would like the world to know it, have it tattooed to your body. This has actually become prevalent nowadays with people getting close to their pets. It is also a great tattoo design because it is truly unique and very meaningful.
Such a pit bull tattoo is a mark of affection, and it serves to show this love.
However, it is more common to get one after the pitbull has passed away, and it will always be a reminder of the dog’s love. And in the case of a live pitbull, the tattoo will remain relevant for several years since dogs have fairly lengthy lives.
- Text included
Add the image of a pitbull to the name of a person, and you signify your loyalty to them. Pitbull, and other dogs for that matter, are known for their loyalty and willingness to die defending their master. As such, this could be an appropriate tattoo when combined with the name of a lover or family member.
With this type of design, you have the freedom to choose the words you want included, and you can make the tattoo have more meaning. For example, if you’re getting the tattoo of your actual pet, that pet’s name could accompany the drawing and emphasize on what the tattoo stands for.
Because the pit bull is also a sign of loyalty, you can add the name of your country, spouse or child; whatever you feel strongly about.
- Collared pitbull
A dog’s collar is a symbol of restraint, and using it in your tattoo signifies your own attitude. When you use this design, it’s basically saying you are loyal but can also attack when let to do so by your master. This could serve as a warning to others not to underestimate your strength.
- Cartooned pitbull
Cartoons allow freedom to play with ideas, for example, it would be unusual to see an actual pit bull wearing boxing gloves, but make it into a cartoon… This design lets you exaggerate the qualities you like and alter the dog’s physical features, which is why the pit bull could be wearing boxing gloves.
- Tribal pitbull tattoos
Because of all the qualities in a pitbull most gangs require of their members, this design seems like a natural fit. They are aggressive, powerful and loyal to their masters.
Because all gangs can’t have the same tattoo, the design is usually altered a bit by including other graphics such as stripes, names and even specific colours. For this design to be effective, you ought to be well informed about what it is you’re doing lest you give people the wrong idea.
