Foo dog Tattoo Ideas, Designs and Meaning

Meaning of Foo dog Tattoos

  • Foo dog tattoos, also known as guardian lion tattoos, symbolize protection, power, and strength.
  • These tattoos are inspired by the traditional Chinese guardian lions, often seen at the entrance of temples and palaces.
  • In Chinese culture, foo dogs are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
  • Historically, foo dogs have been used as symbols of authority and guardianship, dating back to the Han Dynasty.
  • Foo dog tattoos can be designed in various styles, including traditional, neo-traditional, and realistic.
  • They are often depicted in pairs, with one representing the male and the other the female, symbolizing balance and harmony.
  • Common placements for foo dog tattoos include the arms, back, and chest, allowing for detailed and intricate designs.
  • The tattoos can be adorned with additional elements like clouds, flames, or flowers to enhance their cultural significance.
  • Foo dog tattoos are popular among both men and women, appealing to those who value protection and strength.
  • The vibrant colors and dynamic poses of foo dog tattoos make them visually striking and culturally rich.
Read More

2,345 Tattoo Ideas

Dynamic Foo Dog Tattoo Flash
pinterest logo
Dynamic Foo Dog Tattoo Flash
Selection from Pinterest
Pin by Steve Petraschuk on Tattoos | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design, Tattoo  designs
pinterest logo
Pin by Steve Petraschuk on Tattoos | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design, Tattoo designs
Selection from Pinterest
Tiger/foo dog tattoo design. Got on my left arm.
pinterest logo
Tiger/foo dog tattoo design. Got on my left arm.
Selection from Pinterest
foo dog tattoo
pinterest logo
foo dog tattoo
Selection from Pinterest
Cute Foo Dog Tattoo Idea
pinterest logo
Cute Foo Dog Tattoo Idea
Selection from Pinterest
12 Foo Dog Tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog
pinterest logo
12 Foo Dog Tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog
Selection from Pinterest
40 Ultimate Foo Dog Tattoo Designs | Foo dog tattoo design, Foo dog tattoo, Foo  dog tattoo meaning
pinterest logo
40 Ultimate Foo Dog Tattoo Designs | Foo dog tattoo design, Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo meaning
Selection from Pinterest
50 Fantastic Foo Dog Tattoo Ideas – A Creature Rich In Symbolic Meaning  Check more at http
pinterest logo
50 Fantastic Foo Dog Tattoo Ideas – A Creature Rich In Symbolic Meaning Check more at http
Selection from Pinterest
Foo dog tattoo, Japanese foo dog, Lion tattoo design
pinterest logo
Foo dog tattoo, Japanese foo dog, Lion tattoo design
Selection from Pinterest
39 Foo dog samurai tattoo ideas in 2025 | samurai tattoo, japanese sleeve  tattoos, japanese tattoo
pinterest logo
39 Foo dog samurai tattoo ideas in 2025 | samurai tattoo, japanese sleeve tattoos, japanese tattoo
Selection from Pinterest
Chinese Dog Tattoo
pinterest logo
Chinese Dog Tattoo
Selection from Pinterest
12+ Chinese Lion Tattoo Designs
pinterest logo
12+ Chinese Lion Tattoo Designs
Selection from Pinterest
Discover 58 Foo Dog and Fu Dog Tattoo Ideas | asian tattoos, japanese  sleeve tattoos, female foo dog drawing and more
pinterest logo
Discover 58 Foo Dog and Fu Dog Tattoo Ideas | asian tattoos, japanese sleeve tattoos, female foo dog drawing and more
Selection from Pinterest
13 Foo dog tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog tattoo design
pinterest logo
13 Foo dog tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog tattoo design
Selection from Pinterest
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
pinterest logo
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
Selection from Pinterest
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
pinterest logo
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
Selection from Pinterest
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
pinterest logo
100 Foo Dog Tattoo Designs for Men
Selection from Pinterest
110 Foo Dog Tattoo Ideas: Design and Meaning | Art and Design
pinterest logo
110 Foo Dog Tattoo Ideas: Design and Meaning | Art and Design
Selection from Pinterest
Discover 22 Fuu Dog Tattoos and Foo Dog Tattoo Design Ideas | japanese foo  dog, foo dog shoulder tattoo, foo dog forearm tattoo design and more
pinterest logo
Discover 22 Fuu Dog Tattoos and Foo Dog Tattoo Design Ideas | japanese foo dog, foo dog shoulder tattoo, foo dog forearm tattoo design and more
Selection from Pinterest
Pin by Nicolas Via on Tatuajes | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design,  Celtic sleeve tattoos
pinterest logo
Pin by Nicolas Via on Tatuajes | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design, Celtic sleeve tattoos
Selection from Pinterest
What a Foo Dog Tattoo Really Means (With Pictures)
pinterest logo
What a Foo Dog Tattoo Really Means (With Pictures)
Selection from Pinterest
Foo Dog Tattoo
pinterest logo
Foo Dog Tattoo
Selection from Pinterest
18 Foo dog tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog
pinterest logo
18 Foo dog tattoo ideas | foo dog tattoo, dog tattoo, foo dog
Selection from Pinterest
Pin by Felipe Carvalho on Tatoo | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design,  Sleeve tattoos
pinterest logo
Pin by Felipe Carvalho on Tatoo | Foo dog tattoo, Foo dog tattoo design, Sleeve tattoos
Selection from Pinterest

One App to Store All Your Tattoo Ideas

Store your tattoo ideas in one place and Virtual Try-On them on your body!

app_store_badgeapp_store_badge
Free Tattoo Simulator: Virtual Tattoo Try-On for Safe and Easy Decisions

See Your Design On Your Body

With the virtual try-on feature, you can realistically see how any design looks on your body. Save screenshot and share with your tattoo artist!

app_store_badgeapp_store_badge
Free Tattoo Simulator: Virtual Tattoo Try-On for Safe and Easy Decisions

Cultural Considerations and Taboos for Foo dog Tattoos

Taboos and Cultural Sensitivities

When considering a Foo Dog tattoo, it's important to be aware of cultural sensitivities. These creatures are deeply rooted in Asian culture and hold spiritual significance. Appropriating these symbols without understanding their cultural context can be seen as disrespectful. It's advisable to approach this tattoo design with respect and understanding of its cultural heritage. Additionally, ensure that the depiction of the Foo Dog is accurate and respectful, avoiding any caricature or misrepresentation that could be offensive.

Popular Tattoo Styles and Variations for Foo dog Tattoos

Popular Styles and Variations

Foo Dog tattoos can be rendered in various styles, each bringing a unique aesthetic to the design:

  • Traditional Japanese Style: Often features bold lines and vibrant colors, capturing the fierce and protective nature of the Foo Dog.
  • Realistic Style: Focuses on intricate details and shading to create a lifelike representation of the Foo Dog.
  • Neo-Traditional Style: Combines traditional elements with modern techniques, offering a fresh take on the classic design.
  • Black and Grey Style: Utilizes shading and contrast to create a dramatic and timeless look.

Each style can be customized to reflect personal significance, incorporating elements like flowers, waves, or clouds to enhance the design.

Historical Origins and Evolution of Foo dog Tattoos

Historical Significance

The Foo Dog has a rich history dating back to ancient China, where they were believed to be the protectors of sacred spaces. These mythical creatures are thought to have originated from the depiction of real lions, which were introduced to China through trade with the West. Over time, they evolved into the stylized guardian figures we recognize today. In Japan, the Komainu have been used since the Nara period (710-794 AD) as protectors of Shinto shrines. The historical significance of Foo Dogs as symbols of protection and power has made them enduring motifs in art and architecture.

How to choose Tattoo Design, Size and Placement?