Foo, or Fu Dogs as they are known as in the West are Chinese lion guardians called Shi. These creatures are both guardians and good luck charms. When placed outside buildings they are meant to protect those inside from negative energy and to stop those with intent to harm from entering. These ancient symbols have been around since the Han Dynasty (206 BC- 220 AD).

American traditional Foo head by Alex T. Frazer at Bravest Kids Tattoo, Manchester UK.

Realistic Foo statue done by Andy Pho at Skin Designs Tattoos.

Huge rib piece with Foo and flowers by Danh Vu at Inkman Tattoo in Brooklyn, NY.

As a tattoo this creature is also meant to be protective. Keeping the wearer safe from harm. This creature is also tattooed to be a representation of the wearer’s strength, courage, and heroism.

Realistic stomach piece by David Hoang at Chronic Ink Tattoos in Toronto.

Back of neck foo by Tristen Zhang at Chronic Ink Tattoo in Toronto.

Brilliant Japanese backpiece by Hori Taka in Kyoto, Japan.

Foo dogs are firstly a Chinese tattoo, but are also associated with Japanese tattoo’s and can be incorporated into Japanese pieces. They are often also done as black and grey pieces, American traditional, and realism pieces.

Golden foo and daruma doll and flowers by Horiei Shinshu in Matsumoto City, Japan.

Foo and flower chest piece by Jin Q Choi at Seoul Ink Tattoo Studio.

Black and grey foo by Kentzho Starbrade at Black Bamba Ink and Orc tattoos.

Forearm filler foo by Steve Black at All of One Tattoo Studio.

Foo head chest piece by Sue Kidder at Old Ironside Tattoo, Honolulu.

Bright foo sleeve by Yan Jingdiao in China.

Foo dogs are often placed on hands, with the head fitting perfectly, lining up with the knuckles.

Blue foo by Anna Waychoff at Powerhouse Tattoo.

Red and blue foo head by Brian Donovan at Davidian Tattoo Studio.

Black and grey foo with a third eye done by Nicolas Malagon Casas in Columbia.

Colourful hand foo by @pandern8er at Main Street Tattoo Collective in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Foo Dog’s make a brilliant and powerful tattoo for those seeking protection and good fortune.