Animals guarding the temples

Statues in Wat Pha Singh, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Mainly, I have seen 2 animals guarding the temples:

• Nagas look like giant cobras and they are heavily decorated. Naga has a large symbology but mainly was the serpent who did protect Buddha when he was meditating
• Lions representing strength and the power of the mind. They usually have their mouth half open because they are roaring, this call awakens all sentient beings to the power of the Dharma. 

Elephant guarding the temple in Elephant Temple

Human guardian :-)