Table of Contents
- What are Foo Dogs?
- How did the Fu Dogs mythology develop?
- What do Chinese Lion statues look like?
- According to feng shui, how should Foo Dogs be arranged?
- Where to place a Foo Dog statue outdoors
- Does the color of your Lion Dogs (a.k.a. Shishi) matter?
- Concluding thoughts
What are Foo Dogs?
Foo Dogs are Chinese protection symbols of feng shui that typically “guard” the entranceways to buildings and homes. Ironically, they don’t actually depict dogs, but rather lions. They are always presented in pairs and are traditionally carved from granite, marble or some other decorative stone. However, they may also be cast in iron, bronze or ceramic. Due to the high cost of the materials and craftsmanship required to sculpt them, these statues were usually reserved for only the wealthiest and most prestigious families, or imperial palaces, tombs and governmental offices. Consequently, they represented not only sacred protectors against negative energy, but aristocratic status as well.
How did the Fu Dogs mythology develop?
Their mythology has origins that can be traced back to Buddhism in the Chinese Han Dynasty during the second century B.C. According to Buddhist legend, preaching the truth of the Dharma is akin to “roaring like a lion,” which will eventually silence all other voices. Asiatic lions, which were introduced to China through the Silk Road trade route, were often kept by the emperor. These live pets served as inspiration for the imperial guardian lion sculptures. The Chinese refer to them as “shi” which literally translates to “lion.”
Over the centuries, the popularity of these symbolic lions spread from China to Tibet, Thailand, Korea, Japan and across Asia. Japan adopted them from Korea and referred to them as “Korean Dogs.” The Japanese then introduced them to Western cultures, who altered the name to “foo dogs” or “fu dogs.” Although, the words translate to “Buddha” and “prosperity,” the Chinese rarely use these prefixes in conjunction with guardian symbols and never refer to them as “dogs.” Inconsistent references are compounded by the fact that these statues often more closely resemble Chinese breeds of dogs (e.g. Chow Chow and Shih Tzu) than predatory lions.
What do Chinese Lion statues look like?
Foo Dogs are usually depicted as fierce crouching beasts. Their menacing visages serve as deterrents to anyone who might wish to enter with malicious intent. The stylized eyes, teeth and claws of these Chinese totems are intended to capture the power and raw emotion of the animal. In contrast, European depictions of lions are much more lifelike and with rippling muscles.
Each pair of guardian lions includes both female and male versions, which are manifestations of yin and yang. The male lion has an embroidered ball beneath his right front paw that represents the world. The female has a small cub under her left, which represents the cycle of life. Symbolically, he guards the external physical structure, while she protects those living inside.
Their mouths may both be wide open, as if in mid-roar to scare off evil spirits, partially open with large pearls in them, or the female may have her mouth closed. When they are open and closed, it symbolizes the sacred sound “om.” This mantra is prevalent in Buddhism, Hinduism and other religions around the world. Traditionally, when they were placed in front of the homes of high-ranking officials, the number of curls on a lion’s head denoted the rank of the official. The more curls, the higher the rank.
Over time, artistic depictions of guardian lions evolved. Early examples from the Han dynasty (25-220 AD) show slender elongated beasts with a rigid semi-realistic look. Centuries later, during the Qi dynasty (550-577 AD), they adopted a rounder natural appearance with well-defined muscles. The mane became much more stylized with circular spiral patterns adorning its surface and over the entire body as well.
Fu Dogs Quick Reference Etymology
| ORIGIN | NAME | MEANING | APPEARANCE |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | Shi Shishi Tongshi Ruishi | Lion Stone Lion Bronze Lion Auspicious Lion | Paw on ball or cub Made of stone Made of bronze White with turquoise mane |
| India | Sher/Singha | Lion | 4 facing cardinal directions |
| Japan | Shishi Komain | Lion Korean Dog | Open mouth Closed mouth |
| Korea | Haetae/Sanye | Lion | Scaly with horn & bell on neck |
| Thailand | Singha/Singh | Lion | May have wings & stand |
| Tibet | Gangs-Seng-Ge | Snow Lion | White with turquoise mane |
According to feng shui, how should Foo Dogs be arranged?
To balance the energy (good and bad chi) of your home and maximize harmony and good fortune, it’s important that you arrange Chinese guardian lions properly. They should be placed on either side of a door or entryway looking outward. Facing the entrance, the male should be on the right and the female on the left. If they are small statuettes, bookends or table lamps, you should keep them in one room on the same table or shelf, and follow the placement recommendation. If they’re the same sex (sometimes it’s easier for manufacturers), be sure that the inside paws are the ones raised.
Where to place a Foo Dog statue outdoors
While stone lion statues are traditionally found to the left and right of your front door, they can be placed in many locations outside a home. Large marble versions work well at the entrance to your property alongside your driveway or sidewalk. The stairway up to your deck is another appropriate spot for these feng shui sentinels. If you have a traditional or zen garden, adding small stone or metal versions is a great way to show visitors the way in.
Tree-lined pathways that lead to secluded clearings or decorative gazebos cry out for ornamentation. Set Chinese guardian lion statues at the beginning of a trail at ground level or on pedestals to entice people to venture further. Residences or parks with spacious grounds may have streams or koi ponds with arched red pedestrian bridges known as moon bridges or soribashi in Japanese. These structures symbolize the transition from the world of man to that of nature and paradise. Reinforce a bridge’s magical ambiance with ornately carved lion dogs at its approach.
Does the color of your Lion Dogs (a.k.a. Shishi) matter?
Chinese metaphysical arts are complex observances of appearance, composition, position and time, and their effect on the invisible forces that bind everything together…so, of course color matters. Not only that, but so does the placement of the Foo Dogs based on the outside direction they face or their room position relative to the entry door. And you thought quantum physics was complicated!
Feng Shui Wu Xing Cosmology
In feng shui, the direction in which a doorway faces is associated with different colors and elements. So, you can enhance the impact of your large doorway or gate guarding lions by adhering to these nuanced directional guidelines derived from Wu Xing.
- Center – Health & Well-Being
- North – Black – Career
- Northeast – Blue – Education & Knowledge
- East – Green – Family & New Beginnings
- Southeast – Purple – Wealth & Prosperity
- South – Red – Fame & Recognition
- Southwest – Brown, Yellow & Pink – Love & Relationships
- West – White, Gold & Silver (metal) – Creativity & Children
- Northwest – White, Gold & Silver (metal) – Mentors & Travel
Feng Shui Bagua Map
Smaller foo lions that set upon tables, mantels or other surfaces within a room also have ideal color positioning based on the traditional bagua map.
3 Celestial Guardians
The Foo Dog represents one of three divine Chinese creatures sent to Earth to safeguard the cosmic luck trinity of Tien Di Ren (or Tien Ti Ren). They combat the ill effects of the three evils or killings known as Sarm Saat.
- Foo Dog – As mentioned earlier, this dog/lion has male and female versions (representing yin and yang). They protect the inside and outside of a building or dwelling by warding off evil spirits.
- Chi Lin (Qi Lin or Gi Lin) – This chimera has the body of a horse covered by koi scales with a dragon’s head. Often called a Chinese Unicorn (though they may have one, two or no horns at all), this legendary beast promises success, wealth, wisdom, longevity and protection among other things.
- Pi Xiu (Pi Yao or Pi Xie) – This powerful mystical creature is also a hybrid that varies by geography and time period. Generally, it’s depicted with a lion or dog-like body and a dragon’s head. Sometimes it has a horn or wings. It’s loyal, obedient, protective and brings good fortune while fighting off harm to its owner.
Tien Di Ren
The good fortune that an individual receives or is deprived of during their life is dependent on three types of luck that are collectively known as Tien Di Ren.
- Tien (Heaven) – This represents the luck from astrological influences such as the time, date and planetary movements when we were born. It’s our destiny and we have no control over it.
- Di (Earth) – Geographical location, environment, orientation and topographical elements in our surroundings at home and work determine this type of luck. Feng Shui can influence the levels of positive and negative energy here.
- Ren (Man) – This is the one form of luck that we control through our behavior, achievements, beliefs and relationships. Our acquired knowledge, developed talents and earned support enhance its potential.
The celestial guardians are among the most revered protectors and are ubiquitous in Chinese culture. They’re found prominently in and around temples, homes, offices and government edifices. Pairs of any individual type will subdue the negative effects of Sarm Saat but utilizing all three types eradicates them.
Concluding thoughts
Depending on your commitment to feng shui optimization, you can go as crazy or casual as you like with how and where you display your shishi. You might have two males, two females or just one altogether, so take everything with a grain of salt. Treat them with respect and feel free to pat them in thanks for keeping you safe. But, be sure to keep them facing outward from the front door, so they keep evil spirits out of, rather than in your home. The globalization of business has also led to a recognition of the potential value of various cultural rituals in creating a setting of hospitality. Consequently, the adoption of energy flow practices and the use of totems like Foo Dogs are becoming more common in the workplace [Ogilvie, Ng, Xiang, Ryan & Yong 2018]. If you think you’re starting to go a little overboard, know that a foo dog tattoo is a popular Asian design. Comparatively speaking, adding a statue or two outside your home is a pretty low commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions – Foo Dogs
Where do you place foo dogs?
The male Fu Dog (the one holding the globe) is always placed on the male, or Dragon side of the house (to the right of the main door). The female Fu Dog (with the cub) is placed on the female, or Tiger side of the house (to the left of the main door).
Why do fu dogs come in pairs?
Foo dogs are meant to be a pair. Foo dogs are symbolic, protective statues, and they are designed in pairs — one is female, the other is male. The female represents yin, and symbolically protects the people dwelling inside the home, while the male statue, representing yang, protects the structure itself.
References
- Ogilvie, M., Ng, D., Xiang, E., Ryan, M. M., & Yong, J. (2018). Using traditional rituals in hospitality to gain value: A study on the impact of Feng Shui. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 72, 1-9.
Hi. I have two Foo dogs, both with globes and open mouths. Both are very, very similar, only one has male attributes and the other does not. Does this mean that one is female and the other is male?
Male foo dogs will have a globe, while females have a cub. Depending on the level of detail that is visible, the item under their paws may look similar. If they are old carvings (versus more modern castings), the cub’s distinguishing features may have worn down so it looks more like a globe.
I have 2 Foo dogs and would like to know the value of them please
Unless there are distinct markings that clearly identify the maker and date, I would suggest checking out collectibles and selling websites (e.g. eBay) to get some idea of what you have or what similar items are selling for. If you can authenticate that they are Asian antiques, then higher-end auction houses might provide more specific price ranges.
I want to buy foo dogs. Can they be placed on a window sill next to my main door? My house is small and I have a wall facing the front door could they be placed there?
Hello I’m looking at getting a foo dog iv seen a mail one with a ball . But there’s no female one is it ok to get a female of a different design or do they have to be matching
Tradition mandates that you have a male/female pair and that they should be arranged facing each other. Otherwise you won’t get the beneficial effects.
Having two of the same sex might be bad juju.
Hi, I have one fu dog and it’s a female. Do they have to be in pairs or can I have two females, if I can’t find the male?
I have a pair of cream and gold ceramic Foo dogs that I purchased about 25 years ago.
I have placed them on a bookshelf that faces the main entrance to my home (South). After reading your article, you point out that there is usually a male and female pair whereby the female will have a cub under her inside paw and the male will have a ball under his paw.
However, my pair appear to be both males. Each one has both front paws placed on top of a ball and they are looking inward (one looking to the right, and the other looking to the left). Before reading your article, I had them position with their body facing forward horizontally with their heads positioned straight toward toward the front entrance door.
Just wondering if having their bodies facing forward with their heads turned inward would render protection and good energy, or should I change them back to their original position? Thank you.
I think your instinct to face them forward and looking inward is probably best. The manufacturer was likely focused on symmetry rather than accuracy when they designed these pieces. Given that they are both males who protect the outside, you may want to incorporate other Feng Shui inside your home for holistic coverage.
I just purchased two fu dogs and having difficulty learning about them, as I can’t translate the stamp on each of them. So far my wife and I believe that they are: shiwan stoneware?, circa 1920’s?, Jun glaze? They are 17 inches tall, both male work Vines and lotus flower, and both Fu dogs have both front feet on a hollow ball. Beautiful works of art just don’t know how to pin down exactly where and when they are from. Any help greatly appreciated.
What about this – 2 identical male Burma lions with nothing under their paws and straight legs. Will the same positions apply?
Thank you.
My sweet 94 yr old neighbor has sold and moved from his house. He gifted me his male foo dog. I’m sorry I don’t know the proper Feng Shui for his placement being solo.
Well, the male is normally placed on the right as you face the door. At least you have protection for the outside of your home.
Love the history, I have a Shishi Fu Foo dog lion standing over what looks like coins under it on the base and a pup over his back with its front two legs standing on a ball. Both have their mouths open and the colour is brown/bronze, its very heavy to. Anything you can tell me about it?
I have a couple of Foo Dogs and am trying to determine their sex. One is a little larger has its mouth closed and curious, perfectly round holes at the corners of the mouth. The other one is a trifle darker in colour (both of them are green) and is roaring (sans holes)…
Male foo dogs typically have a ball under their paw, while females have a cub under theirs.
I know this is not a dream site but my dream has to do with Foo Dogs. I hope I can get some answers.
In my dream, I was in an old wooden cottage. There was an old Asian man sweeping the wood floor with the front door open. It was dark and raining outside. Off to my left, there were three large white foo dogs floating off a wooden shelf. I told the old man did you see that? he giggled and shook his head. I know you are supposed to have two foo dogs but is there an instance where you can have three in your home?
Thank you.
I purchased two foo dogs today for my sister from a thrift store. Both of them have a gold stick looking thing in their mouths and one has a red and gold tassel on it. What does that mean?
The gold sticks are most likely swords. Foo dogs with swords in their mouths are believed to be especially potent in warding off killing or attacking energy – sha chi. This negative low feng shui energy vibe may be generated from nearby hospitals, graveyards or protruding objects and sharp corners within the home. These sword-bearing guardians can also help cast away evil spirits, black magic and prevent accidents.
I have a double headed Feng Shui Foo Fu dog (Lion) sconce light fixture. It is made of either brass or bronze. It has electric candelabra bulb fixtures on top of the heads. No feet. I am trying to learn about its history and era. The wiring suggests that is at least vintage and possibly antique. There are two Fu dog heads with a circular center piece that to which they are attached. Each head is about 3 – 3.5 inches in height. Any info would be appreciated.
Sherry –
Any photos? I would certainly check the bottom and back for any identification marks or branding.
These comments are very much appreciated. Many years ago I purchased two large Friendly Foo Dogs in Los Angeles CA and after 30+ years, am certain they are very valuable. How to determine their value today? Thank you.
Are they lamps or statuettes? What are they made of? Is there any branding that might help identify them?
I received my foo dogs statues today and I am so happy I love them.
I have a pair on my bookshelf, I’ve always been fond of them but I never knew their history. Very good read.
I just bought a foo dog door knocker. I don’t know how to tell if it is male or female?
Stella, if the object under the paw is a ball, then it is male. If it is a lion cub, then it is female. If neither, then I guess it’s asexual.
Female will have a cub under her foot
Feng Shui is very important. Glad to learn more about Foo Dogs!
Very interesting article. Very informative.
Well you blew my mind on this one. What inspired you to learn all this stuff? What inspired you to make it part of your business?
Seems sort of random, huh? The truth is that one of our best selling products over the years has been a set of Foo Dogs table lamps from Barbara Cosgrove. I was in Taipei City a few years ago and noticed similar statues all over the place. I became curious about the origin, implications and protocols, so I decided to do a little research. Glad you enjoyed the article.
Brilliant! I have two foo dogs and never knew exactly where to place them. Or that there was a tradition to placing them. Thanks. Quick question… Can I take them in my car? I always like putting them on the dashboard. Is that cool? Or does that break any feng shui rules?
Well, that’s certainly something that I never thought of. I couldn’t find any specific mention of Foo Dogs use inside of automobiles, but I would imagine that evil energy would enter through the front windshield (unless you’re backing up, in which case you’re kind of screwed). So, I would recommend that you place them on the dashboard facing out toward the front of the car, with the male on the right and female on the left as you face in (just as if they were outside of a doorway). I know that this arrangement leaves you staring at Foo Dogs’ butts while driving, but better that than bad Feng Shui on the road.
I was recently in China and saw Foo Dogs everywhere, from private homes to businesses to the great wall.
But I didn’t know where they came from or the various details of color and placement. Thank you!
Daniel, you can really go down the rabbit hole when it comes to feng shui and Foo Dogs. Each culture has its own unique take on the mythology and adds meaning to nuanced elements in their designs.
OMG. Always wondered.
The origin and history of Foo Dogs is fascinating. Once you get into the bagua map considerations, you can really go down the feng shui rabbit hole in a hurry.