The bond between American Indians and their dogs has long been held in high esteem, even being documented by writers and artists of the 1800s. “The Indian dog is loved like a brother; it sleeps under his blanket, eats from his plate, and accompanies him everywhere” wrote George Catlin, an artist of the time who recorded scenes of Native American life in paintings and sketches.1 Thus, it was no surprise that when Europeans arrived to the new continent, they found canines playing special roles in the lives of indigenous tribes.
For American Indians, dogs were not just pets or mere companions – but vital parts of their lives and communities. Dogs played essential roles in hunting, transportation, protection, and healing rituals. The Indigenous people of North America had strong ties with their canine companions, seeing them as members of the family rather than property. In some cultures, such as the Lakota Sioux tribe, dogs were viewed as sacred animals and were never used for work or labor.2
Throughout history, many tribes have venerated the dog as a symbol of strength and courage. For example, the Navajo believed that dogs could protect them from evil spirits.3 They also associated the animal with loyalty and friendship.4 Dogs were often considered messengers from the spiritual world, as evidenced by the fact that indigenous tribes often buried their dead with their dogs in order to ensure that their souls will reach the afterlife safely.5
Dogs were also thought to be teachers – showing their masters how to hunt, giving moral guidance, and teaching them about patience.6 According to nineteenth-century anthropologist Lewis Henry Morgan, “the dog was regarded by the Iroquois with peculiar respect and reverence. He was looked upon as a teacher, and his sagacity, fidelity, and courage were highly appreciated.”7 This shows that the importance placed on canine companions was based not only on practicality but also spiritual significance.
American Indians did not only value dogs for their physical abilities but for their psychological traits as well. These animals were seen as loyal, protective, and devoted creatures - qualities that the Indigenous people admired and sought to emulate. Dogs were often given names that reflected important values and beliefs, and stories of heroic dogs were passed down through generations.8
In times of danger, dogs were often used to protect villages and warn of approaching enemies.9 They were so valued that some tribes, such as the Apache, would send out small groups of dogs ahead of the warriors to scout for enemy camps and test the waters before engaging in battle.10 In addition to providing defense, these animals were also important sources of food and clothing. The skins of the dogs were used to make blankets, robes, and moccasins.11
The relationship between American Indians and their canine companions was truly unique and unlike anything seen in other cultures. While the roles of dogs varied among different tribes, the common thread was the deep respect and admiration that the Indigenous people felt for their four-legged friends. As George Catlin wrote in 1841, “[the dog] is the Indian's best friend, his faithful companion, and the sharer of all his joys, sorrows, dangers, and fatigues.”12 Through their loyalty, bravery, and devotion, dogs have played a crucial role in the lives of American Indians for centuries.
References:
- Randall, C. (2015). George Catlin's Exuberant Vision. American Art, 29(2), 8–27. https://doi.org/10.1086/681877
- Strong, D. (2013). Dog Power: A Study of Dogs in Plains Indian Culture. Wicazo Sa Review, 28(2), 97–118. https://doi.org/10.1353/wic.2013.0032
- Stromberg, J. (2017). 10 Ways the Navajo People Have Used the Sacred Animal of Wolf. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from https://www.thoughtco.com/navajo-wolf-legend-2973646
- National Museum of the American Indian. (n.d.). Dog Tales. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from https://americanindian.si.edu/explore/dog-tales
- Stromberg, J. (2018). How Native Americans Honored Dogs in Death. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from https://www.thoughtco.com/native-americans-honor-dogs-in-death-2996413
- Ibid., 4.
- Morgan, L. H. (1851). League of the Ho-de-no-sau-nee or Iroquois. Rochester: Sage & Brother.
- Ibid., 4.
- National Museum of the American Indian. (n.d.). Dog Tales. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from https://americanindian.si.edu/explore/dog-tales
- Sullivan, K. (2020). The Role of Dogs in Native American Tribes. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from https://www.animalsake.com/role-of-dogs-in-native-american-tribes
- Ebner, M. (2018). The Importance of Dogs to Native American Cultures. Retrieved July 5, 2020, from http://www.brighthubeducation.com/social-studies-help/133106-importance-of-dogs-to-native-american-cultures/
- Catlin, G. (1841). Letters and Notes on the Manners, Customs, and Condition of the North American Indians. London: John Murray.