2018: Year of The Dog

February 16, 2018 to February 4, 2019 is the Year of the Dog

The Chinese animal zodiac consists of a cycle of 12 years, with each year being represented by an animal and it’s attributes. Traditionally these zodiac animals were used to date the years. In order, the 12 animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. 

The Dog is the eleventh of all zodiac animals. According to one myth, the Jade Emperor said the order would be decided by the order in which they arrived to his party. Monkey, Rooster and Dog were in another country, helping a god defeat evil spirits. After, they set off to the party together. Because they arrived at the same time, the Jade Emperor went by the order they met the god in the other country. Thus, Dog became eleventh.

Like the western astrological zodiac, the Chinese Zodiac calendar does not start on January 1st. Are you a dog? Find out below! 

Characteristics of Someone Born in the Year of the Dog

Each animal is given symbolic meanings by the ancient Chinese with a corresponding saying. The dog’s attribute is Fidelity and the saying is “Fidelity without amiability leads to rejection“.

Like their pet counterparts, Dogs are said to be honest and loyal and make the truest friends and most reliable partners. They are always willing to lend a helping paw and will do anything for a person they love. Dogs have a tendency to worry and become anxious but they don’t let this hold them back. 

In addition to attributes, the element assigned to each of the dog years further define the characteristics of a dog. 

Famous Dogs

Luckiest Things for Dogs

Lucky Colors

Red, Green, Purple

Lucky Numbers

3, 4, 9 and numbers containing them.

Lucky Directions

East, South, Northeast

Lucky Flowers

Cymbidium Orchids, Roses

Unlucky Colors

Blue, white, gold

Unlucky Numbers

1, 6, 7 and numbers containing them.

Unlucky Directions

Southeast