- When your being followed pretty consistently by a strange dog, (especially a black dog) there is considerable bad luck to be had in your near future.
- If your dog appears angry or defensive around some person for no apparent reason, steer clear.
As humans, we have a long history of superstitions and ghost stories, so it should come as no surprise that the majority of the more complex myths are about dogs. Once upon a time, people used to think that dogs would guide us to the afterlife, whether it was the way to Heaven or Hades.
They also guarded the gates of the afterworld. A three-headed dog named Cerberus served as the guardian of Hades in both Greek and Roman mythology, and the Greco-Egyptian god Hermanubis led souls to Heaven. Even the Aztec worshipped a dog-headed god called Xolotl.
Many people still hold onto the superstitions and myths that these legends have inspired. Here are some of my favorites, along with some background on how they appeared.
We all know that the moon has a strong influence over our lives, so it should come as no surprise that wolves and the moon are the main sources of most dog superstitions.
Not only are howling dogs eerie, but they were once believed to portend death. Here are some common misconceptions about howling dogs: How many times a dog howls and where the dog is located will both indicate how unlucky the dog is.
Black dogs have long gotten a bad rap with superstitions. They were regarded as unlucky in ancient myths and legends because some people thought they were the “spectral” dog, also known as a “barguest.” This monster black dog had enormous teeth and claws. Pay no attention, though—if you’ve read any of the Harry Potter books, you already know how likable the spectral dog is.
Even throughout history, black dogs haven’t ALWAYS been unlucky. For example, if you see a black greyhound with a white spot on his forehead, it’s about the same as winning the superstition lottery – you’re practically guaranteed good fortune. In fact, many cultures believe black dogs are the ultimate symbol of good luck.
Black dogs can also turn bad luck around. Observing an ambulance, for instance, is extremely unlucky unless you wait until you see a black or brown dog cross the street.
Our long history of persistent superstitions is primarily due to British lore. However, they also gave us the novels The Hound of the Baskervilles, Black Dog of Bouley Bay, and The Beast of Bodmin Moor, which serve as a helpful reminder that dog-related superstitions are just that—superstitions.
Black dogs can also turn bad luck around. Observing an ambulance, for instance, is extremely unlucky unless you wait until you see a black or brown dog cross the street.
Many people still hold onto the superstitions and myths that these legends have inspired. Here are some of my favorites, along with some background on how they appeared.
Our long history of persistent superstitions is primarily due to British lore. However, they also gave us the novels The Hound of the Baskervilles, Black Dog of Bouley Bay, and The Beast of Bodmin Moor, which serve as a helpful reminder that dog-related superstitions are just that—superstitions.
We all know that the moon has a strong influence over our lives, so it should come as no surprise that wolves and the moon are the main sources of most dog superstitions.
Black dogs have long gotten a bad rap with superstitions. They were regarded as unlucky in ancient myths and legends because some people thought they were the “spectral” dog, also known as a “barguest.” This monster black dog had enormous teeth and claws. Pay no attention, though—if you’ve read any of the Harry Potter books, you already know how likable the spectral dog is.
Another possibility dates back to medieval times when a person would still be hung for their crimes. Ladders would often be placed at the gallows for the criminal and executioner would walk up. That alone gave ladders a more grim purpose and people began associating it will death. This could of then morphed into a belief that anyone who walked under a ladder would be cursed to later face a death by hanging.
Superstitions have existed for centuries in many different nations and cultures around the world. Some were developed as a result of ostensibly supernatural events, while others were concocted to persuade people to live in a particular way. But as with a child’s game of “telephone,” when these urban legends are passed down from generation to generation, the stories are changed slightly over time. In fact, most people today are unaware of the origins of these myths. Among the strangest superstitions we’ve encountered are those involving our cherished four-legged canines.
First we’re heading off to Scotland where dogs are seen as bringing good karma and serendipity… and rightfully so. Throughout their country’s history, dogs have been given the utmost respect, often portrayed as the symbol of loyalty and companionship – this can be seen throughout their art and decor.
Oddly enough, there is a version of the grim reaper in Scottish folklore – but in dog form. Known as Cù Sìth, this feared four-legged being would be the one to carry lost souls into the afterlife. Besides this one exception, dogs are generally viewed in a very loving way.
This myth is so widespread that there are several places in Paris where you can purchase a prank souvenir cup filled with “lucky dog poop” (a plastic replica of course). When looking a little closer at Parisian culture, one might easily conclude how this “old wives’ tale” came into fruition. Here in America, it is quite embedded in our minds that you should pick up after your dog. When we go to walk our dog, we always make sure to bring a doggie bag along. In Paris, this is a different story, in truth their sidewalks are known to be some of the filthiest in the world. For some reason the pick-up trend never caught on and it is still socially acceptable to leave your dog’s poop on the ground. Most dog parks do not contain poop bag stations, and they lack in pet waste removal signs, reminding dog owners to keep the environment clean. It is fathomable that stepping in dog poop for good or bad fortune could have been made up as a joke or perhaps to minimize just how bad their dog poop situation is.
Greyhounds Bring Good Fortune
Any dog lover knows that watching a Greyhound run is a sight to behold. Their grace and speed are unmatched by any other breed, clocking up to 45 miles per hour in some cases! Though they make great racing dogs, they’re not actually a high energy breed — they can sprint with the best of them, sure, but spend most of their time lounging around once their daily exercise is taken care of. Greyhounds originated somewhere in Egypt and are considered an ancient breed. They were originally bred for hunting, and eventually became the racing champions we know today.
It’s challenging to find the origin of the widespread myth that seeing a Greyhound with a white spot on its head will bring luck. Along with the spotted dog superstition, it is believed to have started somewhere in England, but the exact location and timing are unknown. Anyone who is fortunate enough to see a Greyhound in motion will undoubtedly feel joy and excitement, and the fact that wagering on their races has resulted in large payouts only strengthens the luck factor!
FAQ
What type of dog is good luck?
One of the oldest dog breeds, according to historians, pugs have been around since 400 BC. Their adorable wrinkled faces are similar to Chinese good luck symbols. Their big hearts and personalities simply cannot be contained by their small bodies!
Which pet is good for luck?
According to feng shui, animals like the bat, rat, snake, monkey, dog, boar, deer, cricket, and dragon will be lucky for the family.
What does it mean when a dog comes to your house?
If the dog then enters your home, it portends the beginning of a new friendship that will be dependable, sincere, and considerate. Just keep the dog from following you if it’s raining; it might have the opposite effect and bring you bad luck.
Do dogs bring wealth?
Some people think that bringing a dog into their home will increase their wealth and prosperity and help them overcome challenges.