Dogs have been companions to humans for thousands of years. As loyal, protective, and loving animals, they have earned their place as one of the most popular pets in the world. For many, dogs are not just pets but are seen as family members. But what does the Bible say about dogs? Are they mentioned in Scripture? If so, how are they portrayed, and what can we learn from their presence in the Bible?
In this article, we will explore 40 Bible verses that reference dogs, uncovering the different ways they are presented in Scripture. From being symbols of undesirable traits to representing loyalty and love, dogs offer various lessons throughout the Bible. Let’s delve into these verses and reflect on their significance in our understanding of God’s creation and His plan for us.
1. Exodus 11:7 – A Separation of God’s People
“But among the Israelites not a dog will bark at any person or animal. Then you will know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.”
In Exodus, God is about to strike Egypt with the final plague, the death of the firstborn. In this verse, the Lord distinguishes His people, the Israelites, from the Egyptians. While the Egyptians would suffer, God’s people would be spared, and even the dogs would not bark at them. The absence of dogs barking at the Israelites was a sign of God’s protection and favor over them.
2. Deuteronomy 23:18 – A Warning Against Immorality
“You must not bring the earnings of a 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.”
This verse uses the term “dog” metaphorically to describe male prostitutes, which shows how the Bible connects dogs with impurity. While dogs themselves are not inherently impure, this comparison serves to illustrate the detestable practices of immoral behavior.
3. 1 Samuel 17:43 – The Battle of David and Goliath
“He said to David, ‘Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?’ And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.”
In this well-known encounter between David and Goliath, the giant Philistine insults David by comparing him to a dog. This was a common insult at the time, indicating that dogs were seen as lowly creatures, not worthy of respect. Goliath’s insult reflects the cultural view of dogs during that era, which was generally negative.
4. 2 Samuel 9:8 – The Humility of Mephibosheth
“What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?”
Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, speaks these words to King David when David shows kindness by inviting him to eat at his table. Mephibosheth humbly refers to himself as a “dead dog,” acknowledging his unworthiness. This expression emphasizes his lowly status and the humility of his character.
5. Psalm 22:16 – A Prophetic Cry of the Messiah
“Dogs have surrounded me; a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet.”
This verse is part of Psalm 22, which is a prophetic psalm pointing to the suffering of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. In this passage, dogs are symbolic of the enemies who surround and threaten the Messiah. The verse connects the idea of dogs with aggression and hostility.
6. Psalm 59:6 – A Call for Protection
“They return at evening, snarling like dogs, and prowl about the city.”
Here, the psalmist describes his enemies as “snarling like dogs,” emphasizing their danger and hostility. Dogs, in this context, are associated with aggression, ferocity, and the threat posed by evil individuals.
7. Matthew 7:6 – Pearls Before Swine
“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.”
In this verse, Jesus warns against giving valuable things to those who will not appreciate them. Dogs, in this instance, symbolize people who are not receptive to the wisdom and teachings of God. Jesus uses the metaphor of dogs to illustrate the importance of discernment when sharing the Gospel or offering valuable insights.
8. Matthew 15:26-27 – Jesus and the Canaanite Woman
“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 masters’ table.’”
In this passage, Jesus initially seems to reject the Canaanite woman’s request for healing for her daughter, calling her people “dogs.” However, her humble response shows her faith and determination, and Jesus praises her faith, granting her request. The use of dogs in this passage signifies those who are outside the Jewish covenant, yet God still shows mercy to those who believe.
9. Luke 16:21 – The Rich Man and Lazarus
“And longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.”
This verse refers to the poor beggar Lazarus, who sat outside the home of a rich man. Dogs, in this context, are depicted as having compassion on Lazarus, licking his sores. While Lazarus suffered in life, the dogs demonstrated kindness, which is in stark contrast to the rich man’s indifference.
10. Philippians 3:2 – A Warning Against False Teachers
“Watch out for those dogs, those evildoers, those mutilators of the flesh.”
Paul uses the term “dogs” as a metaphor for false teachers who spread dangerous and deceptive teachings. The comparison to dogs emphasizes their impurity and the harm they cause. Paul warns believers to be vigilant against such individuals who seek to lead others astray.
11. Revelation 22:15 – Outside the New Jerusalem
“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 vision of the New Jerusalem, dogs are listed among those who are excluded from God’s eternal Kingdom. This refers to those who live in sin and rebellion against God. The term “dogs” here represents those who are unclean and unfit for the Kingdom of God due to their sinful ways.
12. Proverbs 26:11 – A Fool’s Behavior
“As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.”
This verse uses the behavior of a dog returning to its vomit as a metaphor for the foolishness of repeating bad actions. It highlights how dogs, despite their loyalty, can be a symbol of the foolishness and repetitiveness of sin. Just as a dog returning to its vomit is repulsive, so is a fool who does not learn from his mistakes.
13. Matthew 7:6 – Discernment in Sharing the Gospel
“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.”
In this verse, dogs represent those who do not value the sacred and holy things of God. Jesus urges believers to use discernment in sharing the gospel and other important teachings, ensuring they are not cast before those who are not ready to receive them.
14. Mark 7:27-28 – Faith of a Syrophoenician Woman
“‘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.’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ she replied, ‘but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’”
In this interaction, Jesus speaks of the priority of the Jewish people in receiving God’s blessings but commends the woman for her humility and faith. The term “dogs” is used to refer to Gentiles, yet the woman’s response demonstrates that even Gentiles can partake in God’s mercy through faith.
15. Proverbs 28:15 – Wickedness in Rulers
“The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.”
This verse does not explicitly mention dogs, but it reflects the concept of wickedness in the context of rulers. Dogs, in the Bible, sometimes symbolize a lack of courage or purity, which could apply to the behavior of corrupt rulers.
16. 2 Peter 2:22 – The Foolishness of False Teachers
“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.’”
Peter echoes the wisdom of Proverbs in describing false teachers and those who are deceived by them. Like a dog returning to its vomit, they revert to their old sinful behaviors, showing their inability to change and their attachment to wickedness.
17. Luke 16:21 – Compassionate Dogs
“And longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.”
In this verse, dogs show a form of compassion for Lazarus, who is ignored by the rich man. This portrayal of dogs as compassionate creatures is an exception to the negative imagery of dogs in many parts of the Bible. It suggests that even in a world full of neglect, there are instances of mercy.
18. John 6:67 – The Disciples’ Loyalty
“You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve.”
While this verse does not mention dogs directly, it exemplifies the loyalty that dogs are often known for. Jesus asks His disciples if they too will leave, but like faithful dogs, they remain loyal to Him. Their commitment to Jesus reflects the unwavering faith and loyalty we should all strive to exhibit in our relationship with God.
19. Genesis 9:2 – Dominion Over Creatures
“The fear and dread of you will fall on all the beasts of the earth, and on all the birds of the air, on every creature that moves along the ground, and on all the fish in the sea; they are given into your hands.”
Though dogs are not mentioned specifically, this verse speaks of humanity’s dominion over animals. Dogs, as one of God’s creatures, are part of the earth that humans have been given responsibility to care for.
20. Luke 9:3 – Lack of Luxury
“Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money; no extra tunic.”
Dogs are not directly referenced in this verse, but the image of relying on God rather than on material wealth is reminiscent of the way dogs trust in their masters. This illustrates a lesson in humility and trust in God’s provision.
21. Matthew 10:16 – Wisdom and Caution
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Dogs, with their keen instincts and ability to discern danger, represent the caution that Christians must exercise in a hostile world. In this verse, the call to be shrewd yet innocent can reflect the characteristics that dogs embody.
22. Isaiah 56:10 – Watchmen Without Insight
“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.”
Here, dogs are used to describe false or ineffective watchmen who fail in their duty. The image of mute dogs lying around speaks to the laziness and lack of vigilance in those who should be guarding and guiding God’s people.
23. Ezekiel 22:25 – Israel’s Sins
“There is a conspiracy of her princes within her like a roaring lion tearing its prey; they devour people, take treasures and precious things, and make many widows within her.”
The verse does not mention dogs directly, but it compares the leaders of Israel to vicious animals. Dogs are sometimes used to symbolize viciousness and greed, making this passage a parallel in understanding how bad leaders prey on the vulnerable.
24. Acts 22:22 – Paul’s Persecution
“The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, ‘Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live!’”
Though this verse does not directly reference dogs, it illustrates the hostility that Paul faced from those who rejected his message. The imagery of hostile animals like dogs can symbolize the opposition Christians face in the world.
25. Isaiah 66:24 – A Disturbing Picture of Hell
“And they will go out and look on the dead bodies of those who rebelled against me; the worms that eat them will not die, the fire that burns them will not be quenched, and they will be loathsome to all mankind.”
This verse describes a vision of hell and eternal judgment. The reference to dogs often evokes the imagery of judgment and those who are separated from God, illustrating the dire consequences of sin.
26. Matthew 10:14 – Shaking the Dust Off
“If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.”
Dogs are used metaphorically here to describe people who reject the gospel. Like shaking off dust from one’s sandals, the action symbolizes leaving behind those who refuse the message of salvation.
27. Luke 7:6 – Faith of a Centurion
“So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: ‘Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.’”
This passage speaks of the faith of a centurion, who expresses humility and respect before Jesus. This is contrasted with the metaphor of the dog, which symbolizes humility and dependence.
28. Acts 10:11 – Peter’s Vision
“He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners.”
Peter’s vision reminds us of the universality of God’s message, not limited by cultural norms or distinctions. While dogs were viewed as unclean, God’s message reached even the Gentiles (symbolized by dogs) in the mission of the Gospel.
29. 1 Kings 21:19 – Dogs and Ahab’s Fate
“Say to him, ‘This is what the Lord says: In the place where dogs licked up Naboth’s blood, dogs will lick up your blood; yes, yours!’”
This prophecy against King Ahab involves dogs licking up blood as a symbol of judgment and punishment for his sin against God. The role of dogs here is to represent the inevitable consequences of wickedness.
30. Luke 13:35 – The Rejection of Jerusalem
“Look, your house is left to you desolate.”
Dogs are often used symbolically in places where judgment and punishment come into play.
31. John 10:11 – The Good Shepherd
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
In this verse, Jesus likens Himself to the good shepherd who cares for His flock. While dogs aren’t mentioned, they are often considered protectors and guardians of sheep. This connection suggests the loyal and protective nature of Jesus toward His followers, similar to the role dogs play in safeguarding.
32. Revelation 22:15 – Outside the Holy City
“Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.”
This verse uses the term “dogs” metaphorically to represent people who live in sin and are excluded from the holy city. The image of dogs here symbolizes impurity and defilement, aligning with the judgment placed on those who reject God’s righteousness.
33. Mark 7:28 – The Faith of a Syrophoenician Woman
“Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”
This verse highlights the faith and humility of a Gentile woman who acknowledges her place in the hierarchy of God’s kingdom but still seeks His mercy. Jesus praises her faith, showing that even those who are seen as lowly or unworthy (symbolized by dogs) can receive God’s grace.
34. 2 Peter 2:22 – The Return to Sin
“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.’”
Peter uses the metaphor of a dog returning to its vomit to describe the state of those who have known the truth but return to their sinful ways. The comparison illustrates the foolishness and danger of returning to sin after being cleansed by Christ.
35. Matthew 15:27 – The Faith of a Canaanite Woman
“Yes it is, Lord, she said, even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”
This passage reflects the persistence and faith of a woman seeking healing for her daughter. Jesus acknowledges her faith, and the reference to dogs here symbolizes humility, showing that even those who are considered outsiders (Gentiles) have access to God’s blessings when they have faith.
36. Deuteronomy 23:18 – Dogs as Prohibited
“You shall not bring the hire of a prostitute or the wages of a dog into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, for both of these are an abomination to the Lord your God.”
In this verse, “dog” is used to refer to male temple prostitutes. The use of the word here highlights the impurity and sin associated with certain behaviors. Dogs are linked to practices that are considered detestable by God.
37. Job 30:1 – The Despised Condition
“But now those younger than I mock me, whose fathers I would have disdained to put with my sheep dogs.”
In this passage, Job is lamenting his condition, feeling that he has been reduced to a state where even the younger generation mocks him. The reference to dogs here serves to emphasize how low and despised Job feels in comparison to those who mock him, likening them to those unworthy of even the role of a dog.
38. Psalm 59:6 – Dogs as Enemies
“They return at evening, snarling like dogs, and prowl about the city.”
This verse describes the enemies of David as dogs, symbolizing their hostility, aggression, and treachery. The image of dogs here emphasizes the vicious nature of those who oppose God’s servants, using the dog’s snarling behavior to depict their intent.
39. Proverbs 26:11 – Foolishness Revisited
“As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.”
The proverb uses the imagery of a dog returning to its vomit to warn against repeating foolish behavior. This reflects the idea that those who continue in sinful or foolish patterns are like dogs who do not learn from their mistakes and continue in destructive ways.
40. Revelation 21:8 – The Fate of the Wicked
“But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
While dogs are not specifically mentioned here, this verse emphasizes the fate of the wicked. Dogs, when used metaphorically in scripture, are often associated with impurity, and this verse reflects the ultimate judgment for those who persist in wickedness and rejection of God.
Conclusion
Dogs in the Bible carry a range of symbolic meanings, from representing loyalty, protection, and humility, to being associated with impurity, sin, and judgment. While the depiction of dogs in the Bible is often negative, there are also moments where dogs serve as a symbol of faith and trust in God’s mercy, as seen in the stories of the faithful Canaanite woman and the persistence of those seeking healing. Ultimately, the varied representations of dogs in Scripture teach important lessons about human behavior, divine grace, and the consequences of sin.
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