So you’ve been looking through the best tattoos for men, and you’ve made it to animal tattoos. Lucky for you, there’s an animal tattoo out there for everyone, trust us. But don’t be afraid to sit down and brainstorm with your artist once you find the animal for you – often called a consultation, lots of artists do this for free. If you don’t have an animal in mind already, relax and think about which species calls out to you the most (or have a look through this list).
After meditating on your inner beast, check out these 45 animal tattoos for men to add a little fuel to the fire. You’ll thank us when your masterpiece is complete.
1. Animal Skull Tattoo
Skulls have always been a badass body ink subject, but it might be time to spice up the human skull tattoos we see everywhere. Bull skulls, cat skulls, whatever animal skull tattoos mean the most to you, that’s the one to pick.
2. Animal Crossing Tattoo
You probably shouldn’t get one if you have to ask what Animal Crossing tattoos are. You know who your favorite villagers are, so go brainstorm with your local artist and make something colorful and cool.
3. Geometric Animal Tattoos
Geometric tattoos are always abstract and always some of the most impressive tattoo designs for men in the world of body ink. Some people get fully geometric animals, and others break down half of the face or body into shapes. But, and a big but, both ways look awesome.
4. Black Panther Animal Tattoo
We’re in the era of spandex-clad superhero movies, so when someone says they’re getting a black panther tattoo, they might mean the animal, but they might also mean a tribute to late and great actor Chadwick Boseman. Or a mix of both, maybe?
5. Animal Lover Tattoo
Anyone who advocates for our furry buddies (and who isn’t?) can get a great animal lover tattoo to show the world how you feel. If you’re the type to make a statement about your love for the world’s wildlife, this tattoo idea is for you.
6. Inner Avatar Animal Tattoo
Inner avatar tattoos used to be all bears and wolves, but now people reference a manner of things to represent their true selves. Maybe a cougar is your inner animal, or maybe it’s your favorite coffee shop. Cool animal tattoos will ensue either way.
7. Minimalist Animal Tattoo
Minimalist animal tattoos can be small and simple but never lack in appeal. Decorate your body with one (or many!) of these and prepare for them to get some attention.
8. Ape Tattoo
Getting ape tattoos doesn’t only have to be about looking tough, but you can pay tribute to our ancient ancestors with some of this body art. The style doesn’t matter. They’ll all work.
9. Bat Tattoo
Bats are symbols of the night and the perfect animal tattoos for horror fans. Anyone looking for animals that will go well with their “darker” themed pieces of body art should look no further than this animal tattoo.
10. Bear Tattoos
Bear tattoos are symbols of power, and you won’t find a hardier animal on this planet. Our cuddly but deadly friends thrive in harsh conditions, so if that sounds like you, check out this animal tattoo.
11. Lion Tattoo
We all know lion tattoos are the king of the ink jungle, a fiercely protective leader that will do everything necessary to take care of its pride. And remember, badass animals make badass tattoos.
12. Wolf Tattoo
Wolves can represent loners or members of a pack. No matter where you fit in, these guys are pretty versatile survivalists. It’s also statistically impossible for wolf tattoos not to be awesome.
13. Owl Tattoo
The wise and nocturnal sentinels of the forest, owl tattoos, are perfect for men who hunger for wisdom or guys who are ‘night owls’ and feel most awake when the rest of us sleep.
14. Bee Tattoo
Without bees, the floral world would be in a tough spot, so pay tribute to everyone’s favorite pollinators (everyone who isn’t afraid of them) with bee tattoos.
15. Bull Tattoo
Bulls are symbols of power and strength, so if you’re the type never to back down and charge admittedly headfirst into life, this animal tattoo is worth considering.
16. Butterfly Tattoo
Who says butterfly tattoos aren’t cool? The majestic butterfly is one of the strongest symbols of metamorphosis and rebirth you can find, something great to ponder on while you get this animal tattoo.
17. Cat Tattoo
Not only are cats one of the world’s most popular pets, but they’re also great signifiers of independence and freedom. If you’re independent and free, or if you really love your furry pals, consider a cat animal tattoo.
18. Tiger Tattoo
Tigers stand at the top of the food chain wherever they live. They’re historically some of the most impressive animal tattoos around too. Look to Japanese traditional or realism for some timeless, impressive tiger tattoo designs.
19. Snake Tattoo
Snakes are among the most phobia-inducing animals on the planet, second only to the spiders, but they’re also awesome pets. Give these sweet serpents the love they deserve and check this great serpent animal tattoo.
20. Fish Tattoo
If you feel connected to the mysterious oceans, fish tattoos might be perfect for you. There’s an endless variety of beasts under the sea, so think hard. Lionfish, perhaps?
21. Deer Tattoo
Deer tattoos are a perfect symbol for those in tune with the forest. If you’re a budding or established naturalist, deer tattoos could be perfect for you.
22. Dinosaur Tattoo
Half of the male population was fascinated with dinosaurs in grade school at some point or another. We know the drill; everyone chooses a personality at five – trucks, police officers, superheroes, or dinosaurs. Fulfill your childhood fantasies, get those dinosaur tattoos.
23. Bird Tattoo
Be it a hawk, a hummingbird, or even a feather tattoo, bird tattoos are regal and will always impress. An eagle tattoo might be right for you, or maybe the old classic, dual shoulder sparrows.
24. Horse Tattoo
They say dogs are man’s best friend, but humans have relied on horses for so long that they must be a close second. If you want to celebrate our equestrian companions, horse tattoos are perfect for you.
25. Dog Tattoo
The real GOAT of house pets, dog tattoos are perfect if you want to have a symbol of loyalty inked. There are countless pet portraits out there too, and (with the right artist) they always look amazing.
26. Elephant Tattoo
Elephants are peaceful beings of intelligence, power, nobility, and perfect subjects for awe-inspiring body art. Nobody will forget your elephant tattoo (if they’re anything like an elephant, they won’t).
27. Koi Tattoo
For hundreds of years, koi fish have been an integral part of east-Asian folklore. Legends say that after scaling a waterfall, one perseverant koi was transformed into a dragon; this animal tattoo has some serious history.
28. Hippo Tattoo
Hippos might look cute, but don’t let them fool you. Hippos are among the most dangerous animals on the planet, killing up to 500 people a year, making them over twice as deadly as lions. If you’re looking for a fierce tattoo, forget all the other animals in the jungle.
29. Rabbit Tattoo
Rabbits have always been a symbol of rebirth. Hopefully, you’ve heard that famous figure of speech, but there’s more to rabbits than that. They’re swift thinkers and natural runners, so check out this animal tattoo ideal for quick men.
30. Fox Tattoo
Historically, everyone knows that foxes are known for being clever and cunning. If that’s you, then hen house tattoos beware because fox tattoos are a perfect fit.
31. Reptile Tattoo
Reptile tattoos can include hundreds of different species. Herp fans rejoice because there is no shortage of inspiration out there. Just pick your favorite reptile and your favorite style, and voila, your perfect piece of ink.
32. Panda Tattoo
Pandas are a quiet and mysterious bear. They’re also arguably China’s most famous animal (sorry chow-chows). If you’re a fan of the country or just love their beauty, think adorning yourself with this adorable animal tattoo.
33. Phoenix Tattoo
The phoenix is the most impressive mythological bird in history. You can’t kill a phoenix because they’re just reborn even stronger. If you’ve been through hell and back, think about this mythical animal tattoo.
34. Seahorse Tattoo
A playful symbol of the sea, seahorse tattoos are great for anyone who loves the water but wants something a little different from an aquatic animal tattoo.
35. Spider Tattoo
Spiders are another animal that fits perfectly with a horror aesthetic. Since they are the most feared insect on the planet, spider tattoos will be perfect for anyone with a penchant for the spooky.
36. Shark Tattoo
Sharks are no doubt the most feared predator in the water and make for awesome animal tattoos. If you’re someone who attacks your goals ferociously, shark tattoos might be right for you.
37. Turtle Tattoo
Turtles are one of the world’s most beloved reptiles and are perfect for symbols of fortitude. No lizard is built tougher than a turtle, if that’s you, get this beautiful and wise animal tattoo.
Best Placements For Animal Tattoos
38. Animal Sleeve Tattoo
If you’re going to get animalistic ink, you might as well go big and look at an animal sleeve tattoo. They’re always exceptional, but remember that this will take a lot of time, money, and pain, so don’t take any sleeves lightly.
39. Animal Chest Tattoo
The chest is a good canvas choice for those of us who want to proudly flash our ink at the beach or on a summer day. With so many species and body art styles, the possibilities are endless.
40. Animal Thigh Tattoo
Animal thigh tattoos might be perfect for the animal lovers out there who want portraits. It might not be for you, but photo-realistic animal heads fit so well on thighs.
41. Animal Hand Tattoo
Animal hand tattoos are a great way to get someone’s attention. If you reach out to shake hands and have a gorilla on your hand, you better believe people are going to remember you. Just please, make sure your career path permits visible ink.
42. Animal Back Tattoo
Using the largest canvas on the human body, animal back tattoos are great for those of us who want big, awe-inspiring works of art. It’ll be a long process, but find a good artist, and you will end up with a masterpiece.
43. Animal Arm Tattoo
Animal arm tattoos can be big or small. If the sleeve was too much too soon, maybe you’d like something smaller in the same area. You can even add it into a sleeve later.
44. Animal Forearm Tattoo
If you want something that will jump out at people but still be easy to hide, look to animal forearm tattoos. There’s enough space for some amazing art, so don’t limit yourself.
45. Animal Leg Tattoo
Like the animal arm tattoos, animal leg tattoos are good for someone starting small but considering adding on in the future. Any style and creature that calls to you will do.
Animal Tattoo FAQ
What animal tattoo should I get?
Choosing an animal tattoo is only something that you can choose, make it unique to your personality or after someone that you love. Whether you choose an animal based off its characteristics or because you have a special connection to it, there are no wrong choices.
What do animal tattoos mean?
Animal tattoos can mean anything from being strong to being wise. However, like any tattoo the meaning is up to you, regardless getting an animal tattoo shows the world you’re the real king of the jungle.
