Sometimes you need a little protection and that’s where Foo Dogs come in handy. Scaring off evil spirits and negativity aimed at thresholds and entrances, they are protectors of truth and defenders against evil. The name comes from the Chinese word “Fu” meaning luck or prosperity.
Foo Dogs gather near temples, palaces, tombs, government buildings, banks, offices and estates. Are they lions or dogs? They have manes, large paws and sharp teeth. At the time they first appeared in China (208 BC to about 221 AD) by way of the Silk Trade Route, Buddhist artisans had never seen a lion. They had only heard of their reputation so they stylized their faces more friendly than fierce.
What you need to know about Foo Dogs is that they hate to be alone. To be effective they work in pairs. One is male, the other female. The “boy” has a ball under one paw. The “girl” has a pup under hers.
If their mouths are closed, they will keep good spirits in the house. Open mouths scare off demons. They are displayed looking away from each other so they don’t get distracted. As you face the doorway, the male sits on the left while the female sits on the right.
Foo Dog Bulletin:
- Place outside to guard entrances
- Mouth closed keeps in good spirits
- Mouth open scares off demons
- Should face away from each other
- Facing door; male on left, female on right
- They attract good fortune
- Known as Celestial Dog or Dog of Happiness
Learn more about Foo Dogs in my new book Practical Magical and Household Luck in the Good Karma Shop.
i buy a pair of piyao ,which position of my entrance door should i place the faemale and male? and its okey that i will put them inside my entrance ?