The Chinese zodiac is a centuries-old system of astrology that uses 12 animals to represent each year in a cycle. Each animal has its own unique personality traits, which are believed to influence the lives of people born in that year. If you’re curious about your Chinese zodiac sign and what it means for your personality, love, career, and more, you’re in the right place!
We take a comprehensive look at all 12 Chinese zodiac signs, their associated traits, and your general compatibility. Whether you’re a Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, or Pig, you’re sure to learn something new about yourself in this post.
An important use of the Chinese zodiac is to determine if two people are compatible in a romantic relationship... or any kind of relationship.
Infographic of Chinese Zodiac Signs
The 12 Animal Signs of the Chinese Zodiac
Below are the 12 animal designations of the Chinese zodiac. (Please note: If you were born before the Chinese New Year began for the year listed, then you were born under the previous Chinese zodiac sign. For example, the Chinese New Year began on January 28 in 2017; from that date onward, the sign is the Rooster. For those born between January 1 and January 27, 2017, the sign is the Monkey.):
Read also: Rooster Traits and Compatibility
Rat (Zi)
The rat represents intelligence, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Those born under this sign are considered clever, generous, ambitious, and charismatic. Rats are known for their problem-solving abilities and business shrewdness, making them natural leaders. They are social and charming, often attracting a wide circle of friends. Rats are believed to possess immense determination and drive, ensuring success in various aspects of life.
Compatible with the dragon and the monkey. Your opposite is the horse.
Born in: 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Ox or Buffalo (Chou)
The ox symbolizes diligence, strength, and dependability. Those born under this sign are considered hardworking, patient, and organized. Ox are renowned for their determination and ability to endure challenges. They are often associated with honesty and reliability, making them trustworthy friends and partners. Their steadfast nature signifies stability and resilience, ensuring their success in various endeavors.
Compatible with the snake and the rooster. Your opposite is the sheep.
Read also: Crossword Clue Solution: Zodiac
Born in: 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Tiger (Yin)
The Tiger embodies courage, passion, and unpredictability. Individuals born in the Year of the Tiger are known for their fearless nature and strong leadership qualities. Tigers are charismatic and daring, often enthusiastically embracing challenges. They possess a magnetic personality, drawing others to their adventurous spirit. Despite their impulsive tendencies, Tigers are fiercely determined, making them formidable achievers and inspiring figures in both personal and professional realms. Forthright and sensitive, you possess great courage. You can be a strong leader capable of great sympathy.
Compatible with the horse and the dog. Your opposite is the monkey.
Born in: 1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Rabbit or Hare (Mao)
The Rabbit symbolizes grace, compassion, and tranquility. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are gentle, empathetic, and peace-loving. Rabbits are known for their artistic talents, intuition, and diplomatic skills. They navigate social situations with ease, promoting harmony and understanding. Individuals under this sign are often sensitive and intuitive, making them excellent listeners and reliable friends.
Read also: Zodiac Dog Cake Designs
Compatible with the sheep and the pig. Your opposite is the rooster.
Born in: 1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Dragon (Chen)
The Dragon is a symbol of power, strength, and good fortune. Those born in the Year of the Dragon are charismatic, ambitious, and lively. Dragons are natural leaders, often displaying unwavering confidence and determination. They are innovative thinkers, unafraid to pursue grand ambitions, and are known for their resilience. Robust and passionate, the life of a Dragon is filled with complexity.
Compatible with the monkey and the rat. Your opposite is the dog.
Born in: 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Snake (Si)
The Snake represents wisdom, intuition, and charm. Individuals born in the Year of the Snake are often perceived as mysterious and insightful. Snakes are strategic thinkers who can navigate complex situations with finesse. They are elegant, graceful, and wise, often relying on their intuition to make decisions.
Compatible with the rooster and the ox. Your opposite is the pig.
Born in: 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Horse (Wu)
The Horse signifies freedom, energy, and a love for adventure. Individuals born in the Year of the Horse are known for their dynamic and enthusiastic nature. Horses are hardworking, loyal, and adaptable, embracing change optimistically. They possess a strong sense of independence and are natural leaders with a knack for inspiring others.
Compatible with the tiger and the dog. Your opposite is the rat.
Born in: 1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Sheep or Goat (Wei)
The Sheep, also known as the Goat or Ram, symbolizes peace, kindness, and creativity. People born in the Year of the Sheep are gentle, compassionate, and artistic. They are known for their warm-hearted nature and intense empathy, often putting others’ needs before their own. Sheep individuals appreciate beauty and harmony and thrive in creative pursuits.
Compatible with the pig and the rabbit. Your opposite is the ox.
Born in: 1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Monkey (Shen)
The Monkey signifies intelligence, wit, and versatility. Those born in the Year of the Monkey are clever, resourceful, and adaptable. Monkeys are known for their playful and curious nature, often approaching challenges with a strategic mindset. They possess a natural charm and excellent communication skills, making them adept at social interactions.
Compatible with the dragon and the rat. Your opposite is the tiger.
Born in: 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Rooster (You)
The Rooster symbolizes confidence, loyalty, and punctuality. People born in the Year of the Rooster are known for their strong sense of responsibility and determination. Roosters are hardworking, resourceful, and observant, often possessing sharp analytical skills. They are charismatic and confident, able to inspire and lead effectively.
Compatible with the snake and the ox. Your opposite is the rabbit.
Born in: 1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Dog (Xu)
The Dog embodies loyalty, honesty, and kindness. Individuals born in the Year of the Dog are renowned for their unwavering loyalty and genuine compassion. Dogs are protective and devoted, often putting the needs of others before their own. They are empathetic listeners and reliable friends. With their strong sense of justice, Dogs are natural advocates for fairness and equality, making them trustworthy allies in personal and professional relationships.
Compatible with the horse and the tiger. Your opposite is the dragon.
Born in: 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Pig or Boar (Hai)
In the Chinese zodiac, the Pig signifies kindness, honesty, and generosity. Pigs are known for their gentle and compassionate nature. Pigs are hardworking and diligent, often achieving their goals through determination and sincerity. They are generous and nurturing, valuing family and friendship deeply. Pigs possess a strong sense of justice and fairness, making them advocates for harmony and peace in their communities.
Compatible with the rabbit and the sheep. Your opposite is the snake.
Born in: 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
The myth behind the Chinese zodiac - Megan Campisi and Pen-Pen Chen
Compatibility Between Zodiac Signs
In a relationship, the most crucial factor for success is compatibility, as it is essential to establish chemistry between couples. There are numerous reasons, such as understanding oneself and one's partner, identifying potential challenges, fostering growth, building a stronger foundation, and embracing collaboration, which explain why individuals need compatible partners.
Finding a perfect match can be challenging, but Chinese astrology provides insights into compatibility for each zodiac sign.
- Rat - These individuals are believed to be pragmatic, logical, and methodical. Renowned for their love of adventure and quick decision-making, they are compatible with the dragon, monkey, and ox. However, their relationship may pose challenges with the horse and rooster.
- Ox - The Ox zodiac sign embodies strength, practicality, and reliability. Considered compatible with the rat, snake, and rooster, they may find challenges with the sheep, horse, and dog.
- Tiger - Fearless and bold, Tigers stand out among all zodiac signs. Known for their daring nature, they are compatible with the horse and dog but may find their relationship challenging with the snake and monkey.
- Rabbit - Individuals born under the Rabbit zodiac sign are renowned for their empathetic and artistic nature. They excel at following instructions and find their perfect match with the sheep, pig, and dog. However, establishing a relationship with the rat or rooster sign may be difficult.
- Dragon - Considered one of the most powerful zodiac signs, dragons embrace strength, wisdom, intelligence, and leadership qualities. Their qualities match with the rat, monkey, and rooster signs, but may falter with the dog.
- Snake - Snakes are recognized for their excellent decision-making skills and sensuality. Practicality and sensibility define their character, which coincides with the ox or rooster. However, it may be challenging with the tiger or pig.
- Horse - Being 6th in a row, horses are driven by their love for exploration, propelling them to new heights and making them compatible with the tiger and dog. Rats and oxen may find it challenging to build a relationship with them.
- Goat - Goats are highly empathetic and celebrated for their dreamy and intuitive tendencies, easily pairing with the rabbit, horses, and pigs, but not with oxen and dogs.
- Monkey - Known for their charm, humor, and attractive features, they pass the compatibility test with rats, dragons, and snakes but fail with tigers and pigs.
- Rooster - They prefer not to be pigeon-holed and explore various options, hence are compatible with oxen, snakes, and dragons but not with rabbits and dogs.
- Dog - Individuals born under the Dog zodiac sign are noble, loyal, and calm. They prefer to build relationships with rabbits, tigers, and horses, whereas conflicts may arise with dragons and sheep.
- Pig - Characterized by their passion and deep emotional connections, they are compatible with rabbits, sheep, and tigers.
Detailed Compatibility Analysis
Let's explore specific pairings between different zodiac signs:
- The Rat and the Rat: Both of you are committed to your relationship and feel deeply attached to family life. You know each other so well that you might feel a lack of mystery.
- The Rat and the Ox: You're a happy couple with willingness to share family responsibility.
- The Rat and the Dragon: You are both mature and confident, which enables you to trust and give privacy to each other.
- The Rat and the Monkey: Both of you can understand and tolerate each other. You are able to work together and support each other.
- The Rat and the Rabbit: Both have good qualities, but you are not a perfect couple, because you each love yourself too much to spare love for the other.
- The Ox and the Snake: You are an ideal couple.
- The Ox and the Rooster: Without a doubt you are a happy and harmonious couple.
- The Ox and the Tiger: You are a couple with little in common. It is possible that you get together out of novelty.
- The Ox and the Goat: You are a quarrelsome couple, and your relationship is full of ups and downs.
- The Ox and the Monkey: You have common goals, but your opinions differ.
- The Tiger and the Dog: You are a loving couple with genial and charming personalities.
- The Tiger and the Pig: You are an ideal and devoted couple, always encouraging each other. Both of you are lively and place importance on the other's well-being.
- The Tiger and the Ox: Both are stubborn. You are a couple with much inconsistency.
- The Tiger and the Snake: You are not frank with each other. Both of you are observant and want private space for themselves.
- The Tiger and the Monkey: You are not on the same wavelength.
- The Rabbit and the Goat: Both are gentle. You are good at resolving disputes.
- The Rabbit and the Dog: The Dog is the best zodiac sign for the Rabbit. Both of you love life, love family, and are good at socializing. You have many things in common. You don't rely on each other, but care a lot about each other' feelings.
- The Rabbit and the Pig: Easily satisfied, the Rabbit and the Pig are usually happy with each other.
- The Rabbit and the Rat: The Rabbit is usually not happy with the Rat's irresponsibility and the Rat complains about Rabbits' being too concerned with details.
- The Rabbit and the Rooster: You don't seem to please each other. You are full of complaints.
- The Dragon and the Monkey: You are an ideal couple. Both are romantic while still being sensible. You have good interpersonal skills and are popular amongst your friends.
- The Dragon and the Rooster: Both of you are clever, capable, and independent people.
- The Dragon and the Dog: You are a couple full of conflicts. Both of you are vain, temperamental and aggressive. Though you have common goals, you don't have good understanding towards each other.
- The Snake and the Ox: You are a couple deeply attached to and reliant on each other.
- The Snake and the Rooster: You are a complementary couple who feel content with each other. Your relationship has positive effects on both of you and makes your life better.
- The Snake and the Tiger: You are not a well-suited couple. You are both impulsive, suspicious and harsh, which makes it hard for you to get along well.
- The Snake and the Horse: You are not very deeply attached to each other.
- The Horse and the Tiger: You are a couple with a lot in common and strive for the same goals. Both of you are energetic, which brings much happiness to the relationship.
- The Horse and the Goat: You are a complementary and happy couple. You have different talents and personalities, but you share common goals and values.
- The Horse and the Dog: You will have a lasting relationship and grow old together.
- The Horse and the Rat: You are not deeply attached to each other.
- The Horse and the Ox: You have very different personalities, and lack common interests and habits.
- The Horse and the Snake: You are both talented and efficient people. It is not easy for you to develop a sense of reliance towards each other.
- The Goat and the Rabbit: You are an ideal couple.
- The Goat and the Goat: You are closely attached to each other and reliant on one another. You input much emotion and effort into your relationship, and deeply love each other.
- The Goat and the Pig: You are a sweet couple. Both of you are deeply attached to family life and are willing to compromise.
- The Goat and the Tiger: You are not a well-suited couple. The goat is gentle and romantic, while the tiger is strong, full of enthusiasm and unrestraint.
- The Goat and the Dog: You are not a well-suited couple.
- The Monkey and the Rat: You are a couple capable of building a well-off family. You have common goals and are supportive of one another.
- The Monkey and the Dragon: You can bond with each other in a perfect way. Both of you are ambitious and positive, and have objective thoughts. Marriage would create the same angles for you both, and your family would display good orderliness, that you produce by learning from and helping each other. You both know the importance of cherishing and understanding one another.
- The Monkey and the Dog: You treat each other in an appreciative way and know each other's needs.
- The Monkey and the Tiger: You are both self-centered and calculating, unwilling to compromise. You pay much attention to your own interests and success, and try to avoid family responsibilities.
- The Rooster and the Ox: You are a couple who wins admiration from everyone, and will live to old age in great bliss. Both of you are responsible towards your family and devote the best of yourselves to it.
- The Rooster and the Dragon: Your marriage will get much applause from others and you will have endless bliss. Due to your personalities and abilities, you match each other perfectly.
- The Rooster and the Snake: You are both sensible and reasonable, which can help ease your differences.
- The Rooster and the Rat: You have a lot of things to argue about.
- The Rooster and the Rabbit: You are a couple that has difficulties in enjoying love.
- The Dog and the Tiger: You were born a couple. You are both idealists who are optimistic, kindhearted, and generous.
- The Dog and the Rabbit: You are both zealous for life and good at interpersonal skills. You are frank to each other, and your relationship is happy and harmonious.
- The Dog and the Horse: Though you lack comprehensive and deep communication and understanding towards each other, you both are willing to commit to improvement and make efforts.
- The Dog and the Dragon: You are not true to each other. You are both vigilant and want to steer the family.
- The Dog and the Goat: Both of you are used to single life and need to learn how to go on as a couple.
- The Pig and the Tiger: You are a couple strongly attracted to each other and know how to please one another.
- The Pig and the Rabbit: You are a committed couple and are satisfied with each other.
Is the Chinese Zodiac Still a Useful Dating Tool?
There does seem to be a general feeling in the air that the Chinese Zodiac is deeply irrelevant. The consensus seemed similar among our Instagram followers too, with only 10% following tradition and actively considering it. Of course, it doesn’t help that we millennials are also factoring in personality tests, horoscopes (Gemini men, keep away!), and all the other strange litmus tests of compatibility.
All that said, I don’t particularly recommend those horoscope blogs filled with terrifying diagrams like the ones above. We much prefer the more measured words of Theodora Lau and Laura Lau, who wrote perhaps the most comprehensive English-language guide to all things Chinese astrology in The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes. They recently released the 40th Anniversary Edition.
Chinese Zodiac Compatibility Chart