What is the correct term? Foo Dog or Foo Lion?
After looking at multiple sources, I'm still having a difficult time determining the correct term. If you are not about sure what I'm referring to, here is a link to what they look like:
http://bostonist.com/2007/10/13/foo_you_foo_dog.php
I've also heard them called Fu Lions/Dogs, Chinese Guardian Lions/Dogs, Stone Lions/Dogs, and Lions/Dogs of Buddha.
Is there a correct term for these animals? Or is it mostly opinion?
It's probably opinion to some degree, though I've got a friend in China who sent me a couple and they were definitely 'Foo Dogs'. Not sure how authoritative that really is, though the term is certainly in use.
In Taiwan, they are called 'Foo lions', and I'm not entirely sure why--- though I know that 'cats' are traditionally seen as lucky in some Asian cultures, whereas dogs are more 'guardians'. The Buddhists call theirs 'foo lions' and I have no idea why.
It seems entirely a matter of culture and geography.
Also keep in mind that there is a breed of dog called the Fu dog, which is distinct from the Foo dogs you're referencing.
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