We provide the meanings of Celtic symbols. The symbolism of Celtic Dogs. Meaning of Celtic Dogs. We also draw custom Celtic art and are capable of embroidering your design into a patch you can wear on your clothing.

The Celts believed that dogs are healers of the soul and body. They symbolize loyalty. They are also considered a symbol of luck.

 

The companionship of dogs is renowned throughout the world. They are known as man's best friend. As our friend, they are great healers. They give us a silent partner we can talk to... and when we need a friend that just cares... they are right there for us, ready to be petted.

 

Dogs are also a symbol of luck. People often get tattoos of dogs to help bring them good luck.

 

The Domesticated Canine has played various roles in the Celtic imagination and lifestyle for over 30 centuries. Dogs can be found on many Celtic artifacts. On the Gundestrup cauldron there is a mythological scene where a dog, and other animals surround the god Cernunnos. Another example is the Gaulish diety Sirona, (a healing goddess) is sometimes depicted with a dog in her lap. Another example still is that the early British diety Nodons are associated with dogs. Finally bones of dogs have been found in holy wells.

With the Gaul, the aspects of healing, hunting, and death were brought into Celtic beliefs. Healing is one of the aspects, because man has long been amazed from times of old at the ability dogs have to heal themselves with their saliva. Nehalennia (the Gaulish mother-deity) is almost alswys portrayed as being accompanied by a dog... which in this instance is suggestive of healing. As for hunting, the association exists in England, but it is more specifically named with the word "hound".

 

In Celtic languages, the Celtic dog is a word that has a heroic meaning. Cúchulainn (Cú meaning “hound”, so “hound of Chulainn), is such a heroic figure in Irish mythology. Also, Cunobelinus (a pre-Claudian leader in Britain) translates, literally to “hound of Belinus”. Although there are many references and associations to the dog in Celtic mythology, I don't believe that there has ever been mention of a “dog” deity.

 

The dog’s natural ability to smell (and survive off of) carrion has given him an association with death. A notable example is the black dog of England.  

Dogs also seem to be one of two favorite domestic animals of the fairies.

Source: "Oxford Dictionary of Celtic Mytholgy", pg 144

© Shane Clark 2008

 

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