The Shishi is a funny-looking being - something like a dog wanting to be a lion. The origins of the shishi character are in China. Shishi dogs are the equivalent of the Chinese foo dogs. Shishi were posted right and left of temple and house entrances as guardians against evil spirits. They can also be found on roofs but were often seen in pairs.

According to legend, the shishi would throw cubs off of cliffs in order to test their strength. Despite this instance of callous disregard for their cub's health, parents were very protective of their young.