SHIH TZU FANCIERS OF SOUTHERN CA

Legends of the Buddha and Shih Tzu

The magnificent Fu Dogs, (Foo) the Yin and Yang (male and female) guardians of Buddhist Temples have been caste out of bronze, fired in ceramics, carved out of stone, jade, cinnabar, ivory, and teak. The male holds a ball with his left paw, symbolic of dual powers over nature, precious stones, energy, valor, and wisdom.  The female holds her puppy with her paw--a symbol of playing, protecting, and disciplining her baby. "Fu" in Manchurian means "happiness."  Many legends say Fu Dogs, are the happy Shih Tzu, forever guarding the temple of Buddha. 

For many years, Siddhartha traveled throughout India with a joyful little dog at his side. One day, several robbers surrounded the Buddha intending to rob and murder him.  Suddenly the affectionate little companion shape-shifted into a roaring lion, so large and ferocious that the frightened men fled in all directions. Instantly the great lion became the fun loving traveling companion. Buddha picked up his small friend, kissed, petted, praised, and blessed him for his loyalty and courage. 

It is believed to-this-day that Shih Tzu are blessed by Buddha. A different color spot on the forehead is the place where Buddha bent down and placed a kiss. A flash of white on the forehead is the place where he laid his finger in blessing, as the noble puppies and ancestors of the Buddha's own Little Lion, parade past him, proudly preparing for birth. Symbolism and the Shih Tzu explains the various parts of the Shih Tzu as they relate to Buddhism.  

For centuries, the ruling classes and aristocrats in most areas of the world have honored toy  breeds. The toys represented a means of expressing social status and wealth because they were not bred for utilitarian purposes. Siddhartha was a Prince, a Brahmin, a member of the highest caste in India before he abandoned all worldly possessions, reached  Nirvana and was named the Buddha. Considering his high social position, he probably owned and loved a toy and could have taken the dog with him on his many journeys. There is always truth behind legends.--editorial comment.