Dog

I AM THE DOG

The Dog’s Lunar Year according to the Western Calendar / Element

10 February 1910 to 29 January 1911 / Metal

28 January 1922 to 15 February 1923 / Water

14 February 1934 to 3 February 1935 / Wood

2 February 1946 to 21 January 1947 / Fire

18 February 1958 to 7 February 1959 / Earth

6 February 1970 to 26 January 1971 / Metal

25 January 1982 to 12 February 1983 / Water

10 February 1994 to 30 January 1995 / Wood

29 January 2006 to 17 February 2007 / Fire

16 February 2018 to 4 February 2019 / Earth

3 February 2030 to 22 January 2031 / Metal

Introductory

The Dog is known to be loyal and steadfast. In the Chinese astrological system, the Dog is the penultimate of the 12 signs in the cycle. When compared to the Western astrological system, the Dog’s zodiac equivalent is the balanced Libra.

The Dog is most active in the late evening, between 7PM and 9PM. With the Chinese astrological system, parallels can be drawn to the twilight setting of the Dog’s most active hours, since the Chinese system considers autumn as the Dog’s strong season.

According to Western astrology, the Tiger’s most dominant period of the year is between 23 September and 22 October, with the balanced Libra as the corresponding sign. The Dog’s fixed element is metal, and belongs to the masculine yang stem.

The Personality of the Dog

Out of the 12 signs in the Chinese zodiac system, the Dog is perhaps the most charming and likable. The Dog is characterised by its love for the intellectual, and for the value they place on fairness and being straightforward. Objective even when it comes to evaluating himself, the Dog is an excellent judge of character, and easily forms accurate impressions of people in a short time.

Famed for his loyalty, this noble characteristic is demonstrated by the way in which he will always come to a person’s rescue, no matter how much the Dog will complain, scold or pretend not to care. The humanitarian Dog simply cannot ignore a call for help. This loyalty sometimes presents as a shortcoming, particularly when the Dog stands by people no matter how unworthy they may appear to be. However, it will mean that for those who care, they will find a loving and protective companion and partner in the Dog, and someone who will not desert them easily.

Although truthful and possessing a sharp tongue, the Dog rarely directs his anger at anyone, if at all. His angry outbursts are unpredictable but short-lived, and the Dog does not hold a grudge. However, those who are the recipients of the Dog’s anger should take note – the Dog’s anger may not necessarily be misplaced and usually arises from a substantial, deeper reason.

The Dog is not shy about expressing himself and when it comes to the causes of justice, the Dog is very serious about upholding morality and any self-imposed responsibilities. In general, the Dog always feels that he should be of service to others. This makes the Dog particularly well suited to careers such as those in medicine, education, social services or the legal profession.

He can also easily influence people in positions of power, thereby putting him in the positions of having resources he wants. Thus, although they may appear to be materialistic given their careers and success, in fact the Dog cares little for wealth. When it comes to finances, the main goal of the Dog is financial stability to support their loved ones, or to spend on the occasional luxury. When the Dog has extreme wealth, whether it is self-generated or inherited, they can become a spendthrift. The Dog will not however, become arrogant especially if the wealth is self-generated, and they will never shun their family or fail to be humble. Loyalty therefore, really is the Dog’s prevailing trait – criticising the Dog’s family or loved ones will only result in the Dog shunning or attacking you.

Given the Dog’s non-materialistic outlook, they can stoically endure times of hardship and deprivation. In such times, the Dog’s protective and humanitarian streak may also be activated, to push them to make the world a better place for everyone to live in.

Although amiable and friendly, the Dog is prefers quiet gatherings, or a simple meal with friends rather than attending events where small talk is required. Thus the Dog may sometimes be criticised for lacking desire for fame and authority. Whilst the Dog may shun such events, they have no trouble being the centre of attention when required, since the Dog generally has a bank of amusing stories and anecdotes to draw from. It is for this reason, as well as the Dog’s integrity, warmth, charisma and ability to analyse people quickly, that sees the trusted Dog invited back to many a party.

The fact that the Dog is respected for his sense of duty is useful when they are required to announce news. Those who have a tendency for the dramatics will find themselves subdued by the Dog’s stable nature.

While optimistic on the surface, the Dog is by nature a pessimist and unnecessary worrier. Although the Dog’s worries are self-induced, there are times when the Dog’s worries and predictions come true, thereby reinforcing the Dog’s belief that it is okay to worry.

Enduringly beautiful, female Dogs are known for being loyal, thoughtful, capable, intelligent and thrifty. They are also extremely ambitious and thus have a tendency to be impatient when things do not work out. The female Dog is protective of her partner and brood, but will still allow them the independence and freedom to express themselves, and make their own decisions without too much interference.

Dogs born at night are known to be more aggressive and sensitive than those born during the Day. In cases like these, it would probably be best for the Dog to be paired with those from the same Triangle of Affinity, namely the Horse and Tiger, as well as the Rabbit. Other stable pairings may arise from a relationship with the Rat, Ox, Monkey, Snake as well as another Dog. Being so stable in their personalities, Dogs should avoid pairings with the colourful Dragon, imaginative Goat as well as the candid Rooster. The easy-going Dog would also do well to avoid a pairing with the complaining Sheep.

Five Different Types of the Dog

Metal Dog (1910, 1970) - Given the Dog’s fixed element is metal, coupled with this second element produces a formidable double Metal sign. To the Tibetans, this combination is known as the Metal Dog, with the potential for such an individual to demonstrate either the very best of the Dog qualities, or the very worst.

If positive, then the Metal Dog is bold, confident and determined in everything they set their minds to. The positive Metal Dog will also be noble and charitable, and able to devote themselves to a lifetime of selfless dedication to causes they find worthy. However, they can also become overly serious, especially when they care deeply about something, and as a result can become anxious, irritable and impatient when things do not work out as planned.

Regardless of the positive or negative turn however, the Metal Dog is always faithful and loyal to friends, and always loving and protective to loved ones.

Water Dog (1922, 1982) - Being outgoing and amiable, the Water Dog has little trouble when convincing and persuading others to agree with their plans, and tends to have a large social circle of friends. Given the water element in this sign, this type of Dog tends to be more easy-going than other Dogs, and somewhat lacking in self-discipline. As a result, this type of Dog can also fall into a period of self-gratification and spending sprees, the lucky recipients tending to be their family and friends.

As a respected Dog with a strong sense of fairness, the Water Dog will do well in the legal profession. When it comes to communicating, the Water Dog is as flexible as water and will use logical arguments that are difficult to reject.

Wood Dog (1934, 1994) - Wood Dogs are hard working and conscientious people, who easily impress onlookers wherever they are. Known to be considerate and warm, these Dogs have no trouble forming long-lasting relationships with those they choose to befriend and love.

The wood element gives this honest Dog a more stable temperament, and emphasises its generous nature. Unlike other simpler Dogs, the Wood Dog they are often attracted to the finer things in life and will gain pleasure from collecting items of interest and beauty. To fund such an interest, they will invariably be attracted to money and success. However, the characteristics of their Dog sign will prevail, preventing this Dog from treading too far down the path of materialism.

Keen to please, Wood Dogs prefer teamwork to solitary efforts. As a result, they tend to hold back unless they gain the support others. Wood Dogs must therefore learn to be independent, even if it may not be what they are used to.

Fire Dog (1946, 2006) - Charm and drama characterise the Fire Dog, who will be the life of any party they are invited to, given their friendly personality. Being extremely attractive and alluring, Fire Dogs are also popular with the opposite sex. Because of their excellent communication skills, Fire Dogs find it easy to convince others to follow in their plans, which these independent people have many of because they are always out for new adventures and thrills to test their courage.

With so many positive traits, the Fire Dog may find it easy to succeed. However, if forced to do something against their wishes, Fire Dogs have a tendency to be stubborn and rebel, thus present stumbling blocks to their fame and fortune. This stubbornness will ignite the Fire element in this type of Dog, whose fierce bite is as strong as his fierce bark.

If the Fire Element is reined in however, the result will be an expressive and creative Dog, passionate and irresistible to those who surround him. This can be achieved by those the Fire Dog looks up to, particularly older and more respected people who can be relied upon.

Earth Dog (1898, 1958) - Grounded and stable like the earth, the talented Dog of this element will be very methodical, efficient and a constructive thinker. Although they have a tendency towards being quiet and reserved, they are as equally persuasive as other types of Dogs when they need to speak and get their message across.

Just like other types of Dogs, the Earth Dog is honest and faithful. Although they are open-minded and accepting of others’ opinions, they also stand up for their own beliefs and hold very high moral standards. As a result of being an overachiever themselves, they might sometimes have the same high expectations of others. In general however, they are held in high esteem by friends and colleagues.

Like the earth is strong, the well-balanced Earth Dog cannot be easily defeated nor will they be overconfident in victory.

Seasons of the Dog

SPRING

Spring Dogs are generally sociable and very helpful, making them good teammates since they are unselfish and will contribute wherever they can. Just like their season, Spring Dogs are carefree, and keep a bright and fresh outlook. They are optimistic and always looking at the future. However, if they are born into an uncaring family, Spring Dogs can grow up to be cynical and distrusting adults.

SUMMER

Just like the world comes alive in the summer, Dogs born during this season are usually more noisy and inquisitive. They also tend to be more assertive and territorial, and because they are not the most eloquent type of Dog, they can appear to be argumentative, overprotective and at times even militant. Like all types of Dogs, the Summer Dog born in the evening tends to be more restless and anxious. However, a Summer Dog is also supportive and loyal, and fiercely protective of their loved ones, thus making them a great companion.

AUTUMN

Of all the Dogs from the four seasons, responsible Autumn Dogs are the most patient and caring, and have the deepest running humanitarian streak. These faithful Dogs are also extremely reliable but will expect others to treat them in the same way. If this type of Dog is born at night, they will not tolerate even the slightest intrusion into their homes. They are attentive and caring towards their loved ones, who will find the Autumn Dog to be someone they can rely on and trust.

WINTER

Dogs born in the winter months are the most protective and affectionate. Obedient without question, they will offer themselves and their help without any hesitation. This type of Dog however, tends to be more affected by their childhood than other types of Dogs – any experiences that they have as children will have a permanent impact on their beliefs, and it will be extremely difficult to change these with time. Given the right experiences, these Dogs will be extremely fair and extremely intolerant of any discrimination, thus making them near-militant when they discover injustice. As this Dog’s friend, they will be warm and caring but they can also be a person’s worst enemy.

Characters of the Dog Child

The traits of the adult Dog are seen early in the friendly and cheerful Dog child. They are characterised by their openness and confidence, which results in a warm, easy-going child who is readily accepting of others. Just like their adult counterparts, the Dog child is an excellent judge of character, and quickly forms accurate impressions of people in a short time. And just like their adult counterparts, the Dog child can consider other people’s arguments without losing sight of their own opinions and dignity.

Parents of a Dog child will find themselves facing few parenting problems. These children are known for their even temper and sensible character; as a result, they will always complete their homework and will never allow themselves to be bullied. Although outgoing and keen to explore, the Dog child will never stray far from home, no matter how much independence they are allowed because to them, family always comes first.

Dog children prefer to avoid conflict and unpleasant scenes although, when offended, they can become rebellious and cynical. With their strong sense of right and wrong, this child cannot be treated unfairly or pushed too far, or they will retaliate. However, their anger is short-lived since the Dog child cannot keep a grudge for long, and will forgive once their points are taken into consideration – remember that it is the injustice they are rebelling against.

Therefore, given the right amount of encouragement and compliments, the Dog child will have great success, which, as a non-materialistic Dog, they will reciprocate generously. Their loyalty also means they possess the ability to keep a secret, thereby making them very trustworthy people.

The Dog and His Ascendants

In Chinese horoscopes, a person born during different periods of the day will have an affect on his/her overall personality in various degrees.

For every individual, their personality has a centered “self” and many layers around it. Each layer has a different size, texture and aura, and when combined, it makes up who the person truly is.

Each period of time during the day corresponds to a different Chinese horoscope. So, although it is a person’s individual choice on which path he will take in life, there may perhaps be other “inner voices” which will influence him. These “inner voices”, “other self” or “inner struggle” comes from their conflicting ascendants.

E.g. A Rooster born in the hours of the Ox. In this case, the individual may experience both animal traits to different degrees, hence the conflict.

Your local time should be used when determining your ascendant.

11PM - 1AM: The Rat Hours

The Rat’s concerns about money will influence the Dog who, as a result, will become considerate and careful with money. A person with this pairing will retain the loving and charming qualities of the Dog, but take on the cunning of the Rat. The result is an extremely alert Dog who will go to all lengths to protect their loved ones and interests when they are threatened.

1AM - 3AM: The Ox Hours

Dogs with the influence of the Ox tend to have rough and unrefined personalities, but their integrity and honesty is without question. The stubborn Ox will bolster the Dog’s steadfastness about their beliefs, resulting in an old Dog unwilling to learn new tricks or change their opinions. This trait however, surfaces only in front of new company; with familiar faces and friends, the Dog relaxes back to their natural self.

3AM - 5AM: The Tiger Hours

Belonging to the same Triangle of Affinity means their qualities, positive and negative, will be reinforced. Combining the Dog with the Tiger results in an active Dog with a heightened appetite for life. Livelier than usual, the Dog-Tiger combination becomes more passionate and willing to undertake risks. This increased risk-taking also presents itself in the face of injustice, when the Dog has little hesitation about coming to anyone’s rescue. However, with so much daring-do, the Dog matched with the Tiger element must take care to curb their impatience and over-critical habits.

5AM - 7AM: The Rabbit Hours

The peace-loving Rabbit relaxes the Dog and subdues their bark. Known for their diplomacy, the Rabbit also subdues the Dog’s confrontational nature, resulting a Dog that will be happier to walk away from a situation. In essence, the Dog becomes more steady and level-headed, and will weigh the pros and cons before making any major decisions.

7AM - 9AM: The Dragon Hours

In the Chinese astrological system, the Dragon and Dog seem to be on opposing ends but when put together, a surprisingly successful combination can be created. The Dog will gain the flamboyance of the Dragon which, when combined with the Dog’s tenacity and determination, may mean the Dog is valued more by their colleagues for their innovative problem-solving.

9AM - 11AM: The Snake Hours

When combined with the secretive, complex Snake, the Dog becomes more quiet and guarded. The Snake’s intellect will make the Dog feel more intellectually superior and competent, and therefore less likely to seek advice from others. A Dog with a Snake ascendant will also be more willing to bend their principles, and therefore more inclined to take shortcuts to achieve their goals. However, with the Snake ascendant, you would be well-advised not to get on the wrong side of this Dog, who will be only too happy to demonstrate the Snake’s vindictive streak.

11AM - 1PM: The Horse Hours

Coming from the same Triangle of Affinity results in a Dog that has its positive traits emphasised by the complementary Horse ascendant. A Dog born in the Hours of the Horse is astute, alert and active, and even sharper. However, being quicker to react than usual means the Dog with a Horse ascendant is also more temperamental. Despite this increased sensitivity, the typical Dog trait of not holding a grudge will soon exert its influence and so the Dog never remains angry or argumentative for long.

1PM - 3PM: The Sheep Hours

The sensitive, gentle Sheep has a calming effect on the Dog, making this already soft-hearted individual even more sensitive and demonstrative of their warmth. The Dog with a Sheep ascendant will be well liked by friends for their sympathetic, less judgemental nature and their willingness for others to learn from their mistakes. The compassionate Sheep will also encourage the Dog’s generosity and helpful nature, and readiness to relate to and assist others. As a result, a Dog with the Sheep ascendant will always been surrounded with friends and supporters.

3PM - 5PM: The Monkey Hours

Usually protective, the Dog with the Monkey ascendant will become less guarded because of the Monkey’s curious, inquisitive nature. With such an influence, everything because possible for the Dog, who will seek out new adventures. It is this positive attitude that creates a winning Dog. The Monkey, being wily and witty, will influence the Dog to be more amusing and versatile. However, the Dog must take care to keep some stability in their lives because the Monkey ascendant will introduce some restlessness into their lives – the Dog will not stay in any one job for long, because the adventurous Monkey ascendant will always be out to bring the Dog to new and interesting places.

5PM - 7PM: The Rooster Hours

When combined with the Rooster as an ascendant, the outspoken Dog becomes the self-righteous and overanalyzing Dog. As a result, there is a danger that this Dog will become indecisive, taking far too long to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Onlookers will however, continue to be impressed by the Dog’s character as supportive and hard working. The Dog with the Rooster ascendant will also retain their devotional qualities, and not have any issues with fighting for their beliefs.

7PM - 9PM: The Dog Hours

A Dog with the Dog ascendant intensifies the defensive qualities of the sign – whether this has a positive or negative impact is up to the Dog. Being a double Dog also intensifies the alertness of their personality, and it means this Dog has an even bigger heart and more honest nature, and will fight to protect their property and interests without hesitation.

9PM - 11PM: The Boar Hours

The sociable Pig, with its appreciation of fine things, will influence the simpler Dog to become more passionate and emotional. Being more sociable also means that this Dog will always be more concerned about others than about themselves, and therefore will always be surrounded by friends and loved ones.

When Moon Signs Meets Sun Signs

In addition to ascendants, there is also another additional factor which affects an individual's personality: the sun signs. The sun signs, or the Western zodiac sign, parallels the Chinese lunar signs. Based on the month and season of the Rat, it is paired with Sagittarius and thereafter the rest of the sun signs are paired with the concurrent moon signs accordingly.

SAGITTARIUS: 22 November to 21 December

Fire + Positive Metal = Sagittarian Dog

The addition of Fire to the Dog’s zodiac make-up gives the Sagittarian Dog an adventurous and playful personality. However, since it is in the Dog’s nature to be sincere and open, as well as sensible and considerate, this Dog is still well respected by others. The Sagittarian Dog is also well liked because they are warm, informal, helpful, well mannered and eloquent.

In this combination of zodiac signs, the Dog’s helpful and alert nature makes the person very responsive to stimuli, and as well as expressive of their emotions without pretence. Already known for their confidence, the Sagittarian Dog will also be particularly noted for their ability to remain calm and not to falter under pressure.

CAPRICORN: 22 December to 20 January

Earth + Positive Metal = Capricorn Dog

A sociable person who loves the company of others, the Capricorn Dog is particularly neighbourly and places importance on family welfare. Although generous, the Capricorn Dog will be less spontaneous in their generosity than other types of Dogs. In fact, the Capricorn Dog will be more cautious and prefer systematic rituals where there are steps to be followed in sequence.

Despite this caution however, when it comes to confronting a controversial issue, the Capricorn Dog will choose to err on the side of accuracy rather than kindness. This concurs with the Dog’s true nature of being fair and reasonable, which can help to subdue the Capricorn’s stubbornness.

AQUARIUS: 21 January to 19 February

Air + Positive Metal = Aquarian Dog

Whilst the Capricorn Dog is more stubborn, the same cannot be said for the Aquarian Dog whose pairing with the water sign makes this type of Dog more adaptable and flexible. The Aquarian Dog is known for their humour and helpfulness, although they are as fluid as water and will never stay in one place for long. Thus although they may have many friends, they have few intimate friends since they are never able to form lasting bonds. A sense of idealism also rules the Aquarian Dog, who may tend to indulge in their own ideas and thoughts, thereby acquiring the reputation of being rather absent-minded.

PISCES: 20 February to 20 March

Water + Positive Metal = Piscean Dog

The less defensive fish here make the normally alert Dog less vigilant. Being less vigilant results in the Piscean Dog being less argumentative and aggressive. The serene and calming fish also influences the Dog to place more emphasis on security and comfort, contrary to the Dog’s normal nature of attending to others’ needs first.

ARIES: 21 March to 19 April

Fire + Positive Metal = Aries Dog

The Aries Dog, although refreshingly frank, is always sincere but never offensive. This is a hallmark of the Aries Dog’s poise and amiable personality. Dedicated and warm-hearted, this Dog will make the necessary sacrifices when required to do so, especially when it is related to emotional and spiritual fulfillment, rather than material gain. Because of the Aries Dog’s noble ways and general selflessness, they often excel as leaders who are respected by their followers. With an innate determination, the Aries Dog will be the driving force behind any matters which require realism and focus, thanks to the influence of the Ram. The Ram, being full of drive and initiative, will also influence the cynical Dog to bounce back quickly after each setback or disappointment.

TAURUS: 20 April to 20 May

Earth + Positive Metal = Taurean Dog

The phrase “There’s no use crying over spilt milk” best describes the Tauren Dog’s attitude towards life. Although cautious, the Taurean Dog is also stable, easy-going and cheerful, and therefore able to attract a circle of firm friends. Being the bull, the Taurean influences the Dog’s physical habits more than the mental ones. As a result, the Taurean Dog remains loyal and generous to others, but will retain the bull’s ability to work unrelentingly towards a goal.

Although the Taurean Dog is always keen to please, they will not lose sight of their interests or their beliefs in the process of doing so. The Taurean Dog also values realism – because this is the combination of the somewhat cautious Dog with the stubborn bull, the result is a person who values tradition, and is unlikely to change their routine or go against convention.

GEMINI: 21 May to 21 June

Air + Positive Metal = Gemini Dog

The Gemini’s wit and humour is an asset for the more stable Dog, who also gains from the Gemini’s spontaneity. As a result, this type of Dog could excel as an entertainer since they have the ability to project a natural and affable public image. The Gemini introduces flexibility to the Dog’s steady character, although they adapt at a rate which many will find difficult to understand. The Gemini Dog’s enthusiasm for change results in a highly optimistic risk taker who will do anything to get what they want. Their expectations however, need to be governed as there is a risk that the Gemini Dog sets standards so high, no one can achieve them.

CANCER: 22 June to 21 July

Water + Positive Metal = Cancerian Dog

The sensitive Crab and the Dog’s sense of stability produces a personality that is not overly governed by emotion, and yet is still able to maintain a sense of objectivity. However rational and fair the Cancerian Dog may be though, they will still give in to the occasional emotional outburst, or become withdrawn every now and then. Onlookers should be aware – no matter how emotional the Cancerian Dog, they will always know what they want in life and will stop at nothing to get it.

Cancerian Dogs have a taste for the finer things in life, and will display a natural affection towards others that is not seen in many other signs. However, the Cancerian Dog needs to take care that their concern and affection is not misinterpreted as possessiveness and overprotectiveness. Their generosity will also extend outwards, from their home and into the community although they prefer to live in refined and comfortable surroundings.

LEO: 22 July to 21 August

Fire + Positive Metal = Leo Dog

Where the Dog is pensive, the Lion instills ambition and confidence. The combined nature of the two signs produces an outspoken personality that is characterised by strong morals. With their principles and given the value they place on loyalty, the Leo Dog will make decisions based on a wish not to betray those who trust them. The Leo Dog does not take kindly to indecisiveness and, like they are willing to provide unquestioning support to others, will insist on the same from their followers.

The Leo Dog however, will never fail to gather a troop of supporters given their captivating personality which is complemented by a sense of realism. In fact, given this realism, the Leo Dog will be wiser, and will choose which confrontations to enter and avoid, in their bid to achieve success.

VIRGO: 22 August to 22 September

Earth + Positive Metal = Virgo Dog

In the Virgo Dog is a unique combination of academic prowess and responsibility. This pairing of signs results in the Dog’s humanitarian streak coming to full force, where they care to the point of becoming overly concerned about the problems of humanity. Their strong sense of responsibility may also lead them to face self-imposed challenges in their work. The two signs however, can complement one another – the Dog is even tempered, whilst the Virgo is diligent, resulting in a Virgo Dog that is happy to fix problems created by others.

LIBRA: 23 September to 22 October

Air + Positive Metal = Libran Dog

The Dog who is disinterested in details, and the Libran who is known to be gracious, combine here to result in a Libran Dog able to bear hurtful encounters with a smile. Their balance and sense of fairness lead them to make good mediators, even though their judgements may seem a little generous at times. Their indecisiveness can also cause problems when functioning as arbitrators. The Libran Dog will also make a good social worker able to feel genuine sympathy, give the peaceful Libran nature and the Dog’s predilection for charity work.

SCORPIO: 23 October to 21 November

Water + Positive Metal = Scorpio Dog

Righteousness and an understanding of human nature come together in this union of the Scorpio and Dog signs. The Scorpio Dog has integrity, and will honour their word and promises. They can be relied upon to resolve problems with little compromise. Because of their belief in commitment and responsibility, the Scorpio Dog will be unrelenting in their approach to achieving their goals and not let obstacles stand in the way.

Compatibility and Conflict

Part of the Third Triangle of Affinity, the Dog belongs to a group that seeks action. Members of this group have a humanitarian streak, and wish to promote universal understanding and communication. This is not surprising given they are motivated by idealism, and given their strong belief in the importance of honesty and transparency. They are likely to form strong bonds around their beliefs, and encourage one another through their energetic and unwavering spirit.

The Dog can expect to have personality clashes with the Dragon or anyone who is born between the hours of 7AM and 9AM, and therefore has the Dragon as their ascendant. In total conflict with one another, both signs have nothing in common and find it extremely hard to even comprehend each other, let alone be harmonious. For example, the Dog’s season (autumn) directly opposes the Dragon’s (spring), and there is also a clash between their elements (metal vs. wood).

Everything about the opposite sign will irk them, and they will always be suspicious of the other’s motivation and level of loyalty. However, effects of such a pairing can be mollified if the Dog has the Dragon as its ascendant, and vice versa.

Rat

Aware of each others’ strengths and limitations, the Rat and the pragmatic Dog will work well as a team most of the time. However, when this pair is involved in a clash with the Horse or Tiger, the Dog will always take sides with those who belong in the same Triangle of Affinity as them.

Ox

Unless they share common goals and interests, this will not be a happy union between the idealistic Dog and the stern and uncompromising Ox. The key to a more conflict-free relationship is to find a common ground to work from, thus generating mutual understanding.

Rabbit

This pairing has the potential for a rewarding relationship, if they exercise restraint and have mutual trust. They must also act in their natural non-aggressive way towards one another. The Rabbit’s intelligence and good advice will be useful to the Dog, who has a tendency to gloss over the details and intricacies of any endeavor or situation. The Dog, who is not afraid of confrontation, should also learn from the Rabbit’s diplomacy and adopt the middle path to reduce conflicts.

Snake

This relationship is compatible given the Snake and Dog’s mutual respect for one another. The Snake’s ambitious qualities will influence the trustworthy Dog, who in turn will remain loyal to the steadfast and faithful Snake. The Snake’s cunning will provide the Dog with an appearance of being innovative, since the Snake is full of ideas and philosophies to help the Dog's idealistic outlook. In turn, the Snake will benefit from the Dog’s understanding nature, as the Dog will respect the Snake’s need for privacy.

Goat

This relationship will not succeed without some effort. Although there is enough goodwill between the two signs for them to stay together, the lack of understanding between the pair prevents this relationship from being a true success. The independent Dog will not understand the Sheep’s need to seek approval before making a decision. The Dog’s dutiful and responsible nature will also fail to understand the Sheep’s uncertainty in deciding who to support or please. Since they work at different paces, and for different goals, both will remain resolute on different sides of the fence with different opinions and preferences.

Monkey

On the surface, a clash of personalities seems inevitable given the Dog and Monkey possessing different priorities and values. However, both signs are adaptable and therefore will adapt well to each other’s quirks. This flexibility will help them to stay clear of conflict, and to reinforce each other’s strengths if they share the same goals. Being opposites will also help them to support one another’s weaknesses. The Monkey however, would do well to note that the Dog’s devotion lies with the Tiger, a sign that is extremely at odds with the Monkey.

Rooster

If the Rooster can convince the Dog that all acts of daring-do and controversy are in the interest of everyone, then the Rooster will find the Dog to be a loyal friend and supporter. This is easier said than done because the sensible Dog errs on the side of rationality and caution. However, given enough patience and understanding, it can be achieved when the Dog is convinced that the Rooster’s intentions are honourable.

Dog

Two dogs will get along well with one another unless their childhood experiences vastly differ, thus producing different outlooks and tendencies to react to stimuli. Once they are able to come to some type of mutual agreement regarding their positions however, Dogs can happily co-exist and cooperate well with one another. When threatened, Dogs will bark at one another but they will never fail to be united against a common threat. A double Dog pairing needs to be particularly watchful of one another’s ascendants – a dominant Dragon ascendant or incompatible Sheep ascendant can be problematic for this relationship.

Pig

The easy-going, pleasant Pig will get along well with the sensible, outgoing Dog provided they share the same loyalty. The helpful and sincere Pig should take care not to overreact to the Dog's sense of ownership which may be interpreted as possessiveness – they should realise that this is the manifestation of the Dog’s care and concern for them. In turn, the simple and sensible Dog needs to be less critical of the Pig’s indulgent lifestyle and values.

Famous Dogs

David Niven

Chiang Ching Kuo

Mother Theresa

Voltaire

Sir Winston Churchill

Herbert Hoover

Elvis Presley

Ralph Nader

Brigitte Bardot

Sophia Loren

Carol Burnett

King Albert of Belgium

King Carl Gustav of Sweden

Ilie Nastase

Cher

Liza Minelli

William J. Clinton

Donald Trump

Itzhak Rabin

Charles Bronson

Pierre Cardin

Zsa Zsa Gabor

Ava Gardner

Norman Mailer

Prince William of Great Britain

Golda Meir

Chou En-Lai

Song Hye Gyo

Deepak Chopra