The Dog (狗, Gǒu) is the eleventh animal in the Chinese Zodiac. Dogs represent loyalty, honesty, and integrity. In Chinese culture, those born in the Year of the Dog are seen as devoted protectors and strong moral thinkers.

Dog-born individuals are known for their sincerity, reliability, and sense of justice. They care deeply about fairness and are always ready to defend loved ones or stand up for what’s right.

Dog Zodiac Years

You are a Dog if you were born in one of the following years:

Dog Years: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030…

Note: The Chinese zodiac is based on the lunar calendar, so check your birth date carefully if you were born in January or early February.

Dog Personality Traits

Strengths Challenges
Loyal and honest Can be anxious or overly cautious
Responsible and protective Sometimes stubborn or pessimistic
Fair-minded and dependable Prone to worrying
Generous and selfless May have difficulty trusting

Dog people are devoted friends and partners, often putting others first. They have a strong moral compass and prefer sincerity over showiness.

Dog Compatibility

Most Compatible Least Compatible
Tiger, Horse, Rabbit Dragon, Rooster
  • Best Match: Tiger – Shares values of courage and justice
  • Great Match: Horse and Rabbit – Offer energy and understanding
  • Clashing Pair: Dragon – Conflicting personalities may lead to tension

Lucky Signs for Dogs

Element Lucky Numbers Lucky Colors Lucky Flowers
Earth (common) 3, 4, 9 Red, green, purple Rose, cymbidium orchid

Lucky Directions: East and Southeast

Each Dog year is linked to one of the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), influencing specific personality nuances.

The Dog in Chinese Culture

  • In Chinese folklore, the Dog is a guardian of peace and justice, often portrayed as a loyal protector.
  • Dogs are associated with sincerity, good fortune, and protection from evil.
  • In the Zodiac Race Legend, the Dog placed eleventh—not because it was slow, but because it paused to play in the water, showing its carefree yet loyal spirit.

Ideal Careers for Dog-Born People

Dogs are drawn to helpful, justice-driven, and people-centered careers, including:

  • Law enforcement or legal professions
  • Non-profit and humanitarian work
  • Counseling and social work
  • Teaching and education
  • Healthcare and veterinary care

They thrive in stable, ethical, and meaningful environments where they can make a difference.

If you're a Dog, your sense of loyalty, integrity, and devotion to justice makes you a rock in your relationships and community. While you may worry more than others, your sincerity and courage set you apart. You’re the kind of person everyone wants in their corner.