# Dog

犬 inu

![Dog](https://www.furoshiki.com/swatches/inu.svg)

Dogs give birth easily, so dog motifs are charms for safe childbirth and the protection of children.

Heian-period dog amulets; Edo safe-birth customs

Dogs were seen as protectors and as easy, prolific breeders. From the Heian period papier-mâché dog amulets guarded households, and in the Edo period pairs of dog charms went with brides and later guarded newborns. Expectant mothers visit shrines on the Day of the Dog in the fifth month of pregnancy to receive a sash (iwata-obi) for an easy birth.

Dog motifs are given as baby gifts and are popular in Year of the Dog.

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Source: https://www.furoshiki.com/patterns/inu/