Foo Dog tattoo designs meaning: protector. Placed at entrance ways of important locations, seen as protectors warding off mythical demons. Foo dog is like a lion meaning strength, pride, justice, protection and guardianship. Foo Dogs would usually be placed in a sitting position but not always, as a protector their stance usually looked like one that was ready to pounce if need be, the face would usually be fierce but sometimes could be seen as mischievous or devilish.