# Docker Patterns

## Container Best Practices
- Use multi-stage builds for production images
- Minimize layer count and image size
- Run containers as non-root users
- Use specific version tags, avoid `latest`
- Implement health checks

## Common Patterns
- **Multi-service applications**: Use docker-compose for local development
- **Production deployments**: Single-container per service with orchestration
- **Development environments**: Volume mounts for code changes
- **CI/CD integration**: Build, test, and push in pipeline stages

## Security Considerations
- Scan images for vulnerabilities
- Use distroless or minimal base images
- Implement resource limits
- Network isolation between services

## Related Documentation
- Examples: `/examples/docker/multi-stage-builds.md`
- Examples: `/examples/docker/compose-patterns.md`
- Reference: `/reference/docker/troubleshooting.md`
- Reference: `/reference/docker/security-checklist.md`