You want something different than what is seen all of the time on plates and tattoos. You don't want the quick answer, or the stereotypical wolf image.
I do think the upper back, center is a great spot for a significant image.
Here's some ideas to help you work out your tattoo:
http://media.photobucket.com/image/recent/Inuyashagirl244/Wolf.jpg
http://www.wolfpeople.com/wolfstore/images/T/Hanta-Yo-57.jpg
http://iphone.88000.org/12__Howling_Wolf_Moon.htm
http://media.photobucket.com/image/recent/Asena_05/Wolf-Heart-Moon_7489-l.jpg
this is a Celtic wolf symbol:
http://www.treesforlife.org.uk/images/celtic_wolf.gif
you could have a wolf paw print actual size... here is one in the snow:
http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=4691755
This link show actual size of a wolf's front paw... it would make an awesome tattoo statement, being that size, and could be done like the snow print if you found an experienced and skilled tattoo artist.
http://annwyn.info/wolf/wolf26.html
This image would be cool in actual foot size, and in black and grey:
http://www.artwallmetaldecor.com/media/5/a20792a1249c1a9971f034_m.jpg
this is a good idea also (but it is someone elses tattoo image):
http://aritattoosdesigns.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/2636.jpg?w=334&h=299
here's a shaman's drum (North American Indian):
http://www.wulflund.com/images_items/shaman-indian-drum-wolf-track-and-the-stars-40-cm_2.jpg
Take any and all images to your tattoo artist of choice to work out a custom tattoo for your approval:
luck~