Dogs are often cherished companions, known for their loyalty and affection. Today, we’ll celebrate the bond between humans and dogs by exploring Bible verses that acknowledge the significance of these faithful animals in our lives.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Gods Timing
Bible Verses About Dogs
Proverbs 26:11
“As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.”
This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that repeating past mistakes is a foolish and destructive behavior. Just as a dog goes back to its vomit, people who continue in their foolish ways are without discernment or wisdom.
Matthew 7:6
“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of guarding and discerning what we share with others. Dogs and pigs symbolize those who do not value or appreciate what is sacred or precious. We should exercise caution in how we share our faith or vulnerable information, in order to protect ourselves from potential harm or misuse.
Isaiah 56:10-11
“Israel’s watchmen are blind, they all lack knowledge; they are all mute dogs, they cannot bark; they lie around and dream, they love to sleep. They are dogs with mighty appetites; they never have enough. They are shepherds who lack understanding; they all turn to their own way, they seek their own gain.”
In this passage, the dogs symbolize the leaders and watchmen of Israel who lack knowledge, understanding, and discernment. They are described as passive, asleep, and self-seeking. This verse serves as a warning against leaders who prioritize their own desires and neglect their responsibilities to guide and protect God’s people.
Proverbs 26:17
“Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.”
This verse illustrates the foolishness of involving oneself in unnecessary conflicts or disputes. Just as grabbing a stray dog by the ears can lead to harm or attack, meddling in quarrels that do not concern us can result in negative consequences. It highlights the importance of discernment and understanding when choosing our battles.
Matthew 15:26-27
“He replied, ‘It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.’ ‘Yes it is, Lord,’ she said. ‘Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.'”
This interaction between Jesus and the Canaanite woman showcases her humble and persistent faith. Although Jesus initially presents the analogy of dogs as outside the scope of God’s provision, the woman recognizes that even the smallest opportunities to receive His grace are valuable. She demonstrates that even those considered to be outsiders can partake in the blessings of God’s mercy and grace.
Philippians 3:2
“Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh.”
In this verse, the term “dogs” refers to false teachers who promote harmful practices and teachings. Paul warns the Philippians to be wary of those who distort the truth and lead others astray. It reminds us to discern and evaluate the teachings we encounter, always aligning them with the true Word of God.
Psalm 22:16-18
“Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”
This prophetic passage from the book of Psalms foretells the suffering that Jesus would endure on the cross. The reference to dogs represents the wicked individuals who would mock and harm Him. It points to the fulfillment of Jesus’ sacrificial death and the price He paid for our redemption.
Deuteronomy 23:18
“You must not bring the earnings of a female prostitute or of a male prostitute into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, because the Lord your God detests them both.”
In this verse, the mention of dogs alludes to the practice of idolatry and sexual immorality often associated with Canaanite religious practices. It serves as a reminder of God’s expectation of purity and holiness in worship and the rejection of practices that defile His sanctuary.
Revelation 22:15
“Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.”
In the book of Revelation, the term “dogs” signifies those who are unrepentant and persist in sinful behavior. This verse highlights that those who do not turn away from their wickedness will remain outside of God’s kingdom, emphasizing the necessity of repentance and transformation through faith in Christ.
2 Peter 2:22
“Of them, the proverbs are true: ‘A dog returns to its vomit,’ and, ‘A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.'”
This verse is a reminder of the propensity of humans to return to sinful behavior despite them knowing better. It emphasizes the importance of true repentance and a permanent turning away from sin, rather than being enticed by its temporary pleasures and then returning to it again.
Exodus 22:31
“You are to be my holy people. So do not eat the meat of an animal torn by wild beasts; throw it to the dogs.”
This commandment given to the Israelites signifies God’s expectation for His chosen people to be set apart and to uphold certain standards of purity and sanctity. The mention of throwing meat torn by wild beasts to the dogs serves as a reminder to not partake in anything that is defiled or impure.
Romans 16:4
“They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them.”
In this verse, the term “dogs” is used in a positive sense to describe those who sacrificially served and supported Paul and the early Christian community. It illustrates the importance of selflessness, love, and support within the body of believers.
Mark 7:27
“He told her, ‘First let the children eat all they want,’ he told her, ‘for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.'”
Jesus uses the analogy of dogs to explain His prioritization of ministering to the Jews before the Gentiles. While the woman was initially seen as an outsider, her humble response leads to Jesus acknowledging her faith and healing her daughter. This passage highlights the inclusivity of God’s grace, even for those initially considered as outsiders.
Psalm 68:23
“That your feet may wade in the blood of your foes, while the tongues of your dogs have their share.”
This verse, filled with poetic imagery, speaks of the victory of God over His enemies. The mention of dogs symbolizes those who are loyal to God and participate in His triumph. It reminds us that in God’s ultimate victory, even the most insignificant creatures will have their portion and share in His glory.
Matthew 15:30-31
“Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them. The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised the God of Israel.”
This passage showcases the healing power of Jesus as people bring those who are suffering and afflicted to Him. Although dogs are not explicitly mentioned, this passage emphasizes the compassion and love of Jesus towards those who are in need, demonstrating His willingness to heal and restore.
Job 30:1
“But now they mock me, men younger than I, whose fathers I would have disdained to put with my sheep dogs.”
In this verse, Job speaks of the degradation he experiences as others mock and disrespect him. He contrasts his previous status and dignity with his current state of being compared to his sheepdogs. It sheds light on the emotional pain Job is enduring and serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with respect and compassion.
Isaiah 56:3-4
“Let no foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, ‘The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.’ And let no eunuch complain, ‘I am only a dry tree.’ For this is what the Lord says: ‘To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant…'”
This passage addresses the inclusion of eunuchs and foreigners within God’s people. While not directly referencing dogs, it encourages those who may feel excluded to embrace their place in God’s family. It reveals God’s heart for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances, to find belonging and acceptance in Him.
Mark 7:28
“She replied, ‘Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.'”
This response from the Canaanite woman to Jesus emphasizes her faith and humility. She acknowledges that even the smallest measure of God’s provision is sufficient for her needs. It displays her understanding that receiving a fragment of His goodness is more than enough, highlighting the value of a humble and grateful heart before the Lord.
Psalm 59:6
“They return in the evening, snarling like dogs, and prowl about the city.”
This verse describes the enemies of the psalmist and their behavior that resembles snarling dogs. It symbolizes their malicious intent and the threats they pose. It serves as a reminder that even amidst adversity and opposition, we can find refuge and protection in God’s presence.
Isaiah 56:9
“All you beasts of the field, come and devour, all you beasts of the forest!”
Although this verse does not specifically refer to dogs, it addresses the wickedness and corruption prevalent among God’s people. It depicts their destructive behavior, comparable to that of wild beasts. It encourages repentance and turning back to God before His judgment falls upon them.
Psalm 22:20
“Deliver me from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dogs.”
David cries out to God for deliverance from his enemies, referring to them metaphorically as dogs. It signifies their aggression and their desire to harm him. This verse demonstrates David’s reliance on God’s protection and his request for divine intervention in his time of need.
Proverbs 26:6
“Sending a message by the hands of a fool is like cutting off one’s feet or drinking poison.”
Although not directly related to dogs, this verse speaks of the folly of entrusting important matters to those who lack wisdom and discernment. Just as it would be unwise to expect a fool to carry out a task effectively, relying on dogs for important tasks would similarly lead to negative outcomes. It underscores the importance of discernment and wisdom in decision-making.
John 10:12-13
“The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”
In this passage, dogs are not explicitly mentioned, but they are represented by the hired hand who abandons the sheep when danger comes. It highlights the difference between someone who truly cares for and protects the flock (like a good shepherd) versus someone who abandons them for their own safety. It contrasts true shepherds with those who are only concerned with their self-interest.
Psalm 59:14
“And at evening let them return, snarling like dogs, and go prowling about the city.”
Similar to the previous Psalm 59:6 mentioned, this verse portrays the enemies of the psalmist as snarling and prowling dogs. It depicts their unrelenting hostility and malicious intent. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual battles we may face, but also the assurance that God is our deliverer and protector.
What Does the Bible Say About Dogs?
In the Bible, dogs are referred to in several passages. Despite not being seen as favorable pets in ancient Israel, dogs are mentioned in various contexts. For instance, dogs are depicted as unclean animals (Leviticus 11:27) and are associated with negative behaviors, such as aggression and scavenging (Proverbs 26:11, Matthew 7:6, Philippians 3:2). However, there are also positive references to dogs, such as the story of the faithful dog that licked the sores of the beggar Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31), demonstrating compassion and loyalty.
While the Bible does not provide a specific mandate about owning or caring for dogs, it does offer principles that can be applied to our interactions with animals. For instance, we are called to be good stewards of God’s creation and to show kindness and compassion to all living beings, including animals (Proverbs 12:10). This implies that we should treat our pets with love, respect, and proper care.
Ultimately, the Bible’s teachings on dogs and all animals remind us of the importance of empathy and responsible stewardship. While the Bible may not have specific commandments regarding the ownership or treatment of dogs, it provides us with overarching principles that guide our conduct towards all creatures.