Chinese Zodiac is a traditional practice of assigning a sign to everyone according to their birth year. There are 12 Chinese Zodiac signs in total, 12 animals, each with different legends and symbolic meanings behind them. One’s Zodiac sign is thought to be associated with one’s personality, fortune, health, life paths, career, marriage compatibility, and more.
The Dog ranks 11th among the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals. It is of earth element and of the earthly branch “Xu” (戌). In traditional Chinese timekeeping, “Xu” corresponds to 7pm to 9pm, called the “Xu” hour. This article will be your comprehensive guide on the Chinese Zodiac Dog sign, yourself, and the Dogs around you. You can learn more about Chinese Zodiac and other traditions on a China culture tour.
What Does the Chinese Zodiac Dog Mean?
The dog in Chinese culture symbolizes loyalty. There’s a common phrase called “忠犬,” the loyal dog, used to refer to someone who is a reliable partner, friend, or subordinate. Dogs are also the symbol of guardian and protection. Since ancient times, people have kept dogs to guard their homes from wild animals or intruders. So the Chinese Zodiac Dog symbolizes loyalty, protection, and companionship.
Chinese Zodiac Dog Years
The Chinese Zodiac cycle repeats every 12 years, which means the year of the Dog reappears every 12 years as well. The most recent year of the Dog was 2018, and the next one will be 2030. Recent years of the Dog are 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, etc.
However, the rotation is based on the lunar calendar rather than the fixed Gregorian calendar. A new cycle begins on the first day of Chinese New Year, which usually falls between January and February. If your birthday falls between these months, make sure you refer to the lunar calendar dates to determine your Zodiac sign.
Dates of Dog Years
Here is a chart with the exact start and end dates of recent Dog years along with their corresponding elements.
| Year | Start Date | End Date | Element |
| 1934 | Feb 14, 1934 | Feb 3, 1935 | Wood Dog |
| 1946 | Feb 2, 1946 | Jan 21, 1947 | Fire Dog |
| 1958 | Feb 18, 1958 | Feb 7, 1959 | Earth Dog |
| 1970 | Feb 6, 1970 | Jan 26, 1971 | Metal Dog |
| 1982 | Jan 25, 1982 | Feb 12, 1983 | Water Dog |
| 1994 | Feb 10, 1994 | Jan 30, 1995 | Wood Dog |
| 2006 | Jan 29, 2006 | Feb 17, 2007 | Fire Dog |
| 2018 | Feb 16, 2018 | Feb 4, 2019 | Earth Dog |
| 2030 | Feb 3, 2030 | Jan 22, 2031 | Metal Dog |
Fortune of Chinese Zodiac Dog in 2025
2025 is the Year of the Snake. Chinese Zodiac Dog people will have a pretty smooth and overall lucky year in your career and finances. But you’re advised to stay cautious of investments. Don’t get too carried away by short-term success. Keep putting efforts into your relationships and personal growth.
Career & Work
Chinese Zodiac sign Dog people are likely to see a hopeful year in your career in 2025. It’ll be a good time to engage in some new projects and improve your professional skills. You’ll see many opportunities to receive recognition from your superiors and win their trust, which can lead to promotion or raise.
In 2025, you’ll likely be able to resolve any conflict or difficulties that might have arisen in the past in the workspace. Communication and cooperation will be easier between you and your coworkers. And businessmen will be able to find reliable partners.
Finances
Chinese Zodiac Dog signs should have a relatively stable year financially in 2025. You will likely see an increase in your salary because of your career advancement. However, you’ll also be spending a decent amount on household items or for social occasions. It’s important to monitor your spending and maybe consider ways to earn money on the side.
People of Chinese Zodiac Dog sign can think about picking up a part-time job, starting a side business, or educating yourself on financial management. It could benefit you in the long run.
Relationships
Unmarried couples of Chinese Zodiac Dog sign will have a wonderful year in 2025. If you have been dating for a long time, it might be the year for you to step into marriage together, and you can expect a happy life with your partner. For Dogs who’re still single, you’ll very likely meet someone special in 2025, so seize your opportunity.
Things might not be so easy for married couples of Chinese Zodiac Dog signs this year. You will need to spend more time communicating with your partner and address any issues that come up. Be aware of a third party that might cause trust issues in your relationship.
Health
People born in Chinese Zodiac Dog years should be mindful but not too worried about your health in 2025. You might catch minor illnesses but should recover quickly as long as you keep a positive attitude. The same goes for your mental health. Your mindset is the deciding factor.
Personal Development
Chinese Zodiac Dog people are encouraged to explore new aspects of your life in 2025. It might involve developing new hobbies or skills, getting to know new social circles, or adjusting your attitude and mindset.
Lucky Colors and Numbers in 2025
Lucky Colors:
Red for energy and positivity.
Yellow for financial growth and stability.
White for clarity and harmony.
Lucky Numbers:
3, 7, and 9 are considered lucky numbers for Dogs in 2025. You can incorporate these numbers in important decisions and dates to enhance your fortune.
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Personality & Characteristics of the Chinese Zodiac Dog
The most prominent traits of Chinese Zodiac sign Dog people are loyalty and honesty. They’re loyal to their close friends and family. Once they see you as an important person in their lives, they’re very protective and caring. Dogs are emotional people who value their connections with others above all else. They are loyal friends, honest lovers, dependable family members, and reliable team players at work.
Despite being so devoted to their loved ones, Dogs are in fact very cautious by nature. People born in Chinese Zodiac Dog years prefer to stay in the background rather than seeking the spotlight in social settings. It may take a while for them to accept new people in their lives.
Because of their honesty, sometimes Dogs can be quick to make judgments or point fingers. They may not be good at seeing the whole picture of things and thinking rationally. Dogs may also have trouble with communication. It’s hard for them to express their thoughts to others. As a result, misunderstandings may arise and hurt their feelings.
Dog Men are devoted and straightforward. Their outgoing characteristics always make them popular among friends and colleagues. However, they’re in fact sensitive on the inside. They take commitments seriously, to their loved ones or their own goals. They would never give up easily, and sometimes they can even be stubborn.
Dog Women demonstrate their loyalty and devotion to their loved ones in a more nurturing way. They’re attuned to the emotions and needs of friends and family. They value mutual support and depth in their relationships. Sometimes they may be a little sensitive and emotional and may express themselves dramatically.
Personalities by 5 Elements for Chinese Zodiac Dog
In Chinese culture, all the things are composed of the Five Elements including Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. And the Chinese Zodiac Dog is also of five elements. Different individuals born in years of the Dog vary in personalities depending on what element they are. Learn more about Chinese culture on exciting China tours.
Earth Dogs (1958, 2018): Persistent, committed, responsible, and meticulous
Fire Dogs (1946, 2006): Kind, cautious, Intelligent, and hardworking
Metal Dogs (1910, 1970): Conservative, accommodating, helpful, and cautious
Water Dogs (1922, 1982): Brave, intelligent, foresighted, responsible, but may be a little self-centered
Wood Dogs (1934, 1994): Honest, reliable, considerate, with a strong sense of justice
How to Get along with Chinese Zodiac Dog Signs
To get along with people of the Chinese Zodiac Dog sign, first, you must understand that it takes them a long time to build genuine relationships. Dogs are often slow to warm up to strangers. So give them time to get to know you. Show them loyalty and be transparent with them. Built trust between you slowly. Show them that you can be trusted and relied upon.
Second, be a good listener to Chinese Zodiac Dog people. They’re thoughtful and observant individuals who love to engage in thoughtful conversations. Express interest in their perspectives and exchange ideas with them. Sometimes Dogs might be a bit reserved to share their feelings. You can give them a little encouragement to open up.
Chinese Zodiac Dog signs value stability and security in life. Be consistent and always show up when you make plans. Remain supportive of them and reciprocate their loyalty. They also have a strong sense of justice and will stand up for those in need. Appreciate their effort and try to share their value.
Lastly, Dogs also appreciate a certain amount of personal space and independence. Give them time to recharge and show them understanding. Respect their boundaries while maintaining a steady relationship.
Relationship Compatibility of the Dog
See what Chinese Zodiac signs are compatible or incompatible with the Dog in romantic relationships according to Chinese Astrology.
Best Matches for Dogs: Tiger, Rabbit, Horse
Dogs and Tigers have strong emotional bonds built on trust and shared values. The Dog’s loyalty and sense of justice align perfectly with the Tiger’s protective and courageous nature. Tigers appreciate the Dog’s stable, supportive characters, which balance out their sometimes impulsive behaviors.
Dogs and Rabbits have personalities that complement each other well. The Dog’s loyalty and protective nature are perfect for the Rabbit’s need for security and trust. They depend on and appreciate each other. Their relationship has honesty, stability, and mutual respect.
Dogs and Horses are both open and frank, making communication easy between them. The Horse’s adventurous spirit brings excitement and fun into the relationship, while the Dog offers security and stability. They will have a committed and enduring relationship based on mutual effort.
Bad Matches for Dogs: Dragon, Goat, Rooster
Dogs and Dragons are often seen as opposites. Dragons are often bold, while Dogs are more grounded and cautious. The Dragon’s confidence may come off as untrustworthy or unreliable for Dogs.
Dogs and Goats may find communication difficult between them. While both are loyal and caring, the Dog can sometimes be critical when conflicts arise. They’re direct and straightforward, which is not the approach that Goats like to take. Dogs will find it hard to resolve problems with Goats.
Dogs and Roosters may have difficulty seeing eye to eye. They can both be too blunt or overly critical at times. In times of arguments, emotions may get the best of them, and neither is willing to make any sacrifices.
Best Jobs & Careers for the Dog
With their strong sense of justice and dedication, people born in Chinese Zodiac Dog years are passionate about causes that fight unfairness. They make great lawyers, judges, police officers, and social workers. These careers allow them to advocate for others and stand up for what’s right. Dogs are also driven to public service and nonprofit work that advocate for social change.
Chinese Zodiac Dog signs are empathetic and caring, which make them excellent doctors, nurses, therapists, or psychologists. In these roles, they can help those in need with their professional knowledge and make a difference in people’s lives. Jobs in education also require the Dog’s patience and devotion. They can work as teachers, counselors, or mentors.
People of Chinese Zodiac Dog sign are good at problem-solving and support. They’re quick to resolve conflicts as human resources managers or customer service representatives. Also being analytical individuals and great team-players, Dogs would shine as research scientists, analysts, or quality control specialists.
Health & Lifestyle Advice for the Dog
People born in Chinese Zodiac Dog years generally enjoy good health because they tend to have a positive outlook towards life. Being active also allows them to build up a strong immune system. However, as energetic as they might be, they shouldn’t take on more than they can handle. Avoid burnout by having enough rest and time to recharge.
Lucky/Unlucky Signs for Chinese Zodiac Dog People
| Lucky Signs | Unlucky Signs |
| · Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 9 and numbers containing them
· Lucky colors: Green, red, purple · Lucky flowers: Cymbidium Orchids, Rose · Lucky directions: South, East, Southeast |
· Unlucky numbers: 1, 6, 7 and numbers containing them
· Unlucky colors: Blue, gold · Unlucky directions: West, North |
Famous Chinese Zodiac Dog People
Stan Lee: December 28, 1922
Elvis Presley: January 8, 1935
Donald Trump: June 14, 1946
Michael Jackson: August 29, 1958
Madonna: August 16, 1958
Justin Bieber: March 1, 1994
