What Being Born in the ‘Year of the Dog’ Means

On February 16, the Chinese New Year commences with symbols of dogs appearing in every possible place for maximum luck.

Photo via Fanghong/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

It’s the Year of the Earth Dog after all, and just like other animals in the Chinese zodiac, celebrations — which often take place sooner — are treated with fancy decors and gifts that represent it.

For one, a mall in northern China showcased a gigantic dog statue that resembled President Donald Trump in late December, marking the end of the Year of the Fire Rooster.

Photo via Fashion Walk/Weibo

The dog, occupying the 11th zodiac position, is considered to be an auspicious animal in Chinese astrology. As it stays by its master through thick and thin, it’s easily called a fortune.

The dog’s barking also indicates its ability to ward of bad elements, such as thieves inside the house, so it pretty much plays an important role.

The Years of the Dog include 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 and 2030 in the immediate future.

For the uninitiated, there are five types of dogs based in Chinese element theory. The upcoming new year will be an Earth Dog; others are Wood, Fire, Gold (Metal) and Water.

Madonna, born on August 16, 1958, is an Earth Dog. Photo via @madonna/Instagram

Individuals born in the Years of the Earth Dog (1958, 2018) are said to be communicative, serious and responsible in work, as per China Highlights. Madonna and Michael Jackson are popular examples.

Winston Churchill, born on November 30, 1874, is a Wood Dog.

Wood Dogs, or those born in 1934 and 1994, are sincere, reliable, considerate, understanding and patient.

Donald Trump, born on June 14, 1946, is a Fire Dog. Photo via @realdonaldtrump/Instagram

Fire Dogs, or those born in 1946 and 2006, are intelligent, hardworking and sincere.

Melania Trump, born on April 26, 1970, is a Gold Dog. Photo via @FLOTUS/Twitter

Gold Dogs, or those born in 1910 and 1970, are conservative, desirable, cautious and keen at helping others.

Prince William, born on June 21, 1982, is a Water Dog.

Finally, Water Dogs, or those born in 1922 and 1982, are brave, self-centered and good at dealing with financial issues.

In general Dogs are loyal, valiant, clever, responsible and courageous. Known weaknesses include being emotional and stubborn.

Other famous Dogs include Confucius, Benjamin Franklin, Bill Clinton, Mother Teresa, Socrates and Voltaire.

According to China Highlights, Dogs’ lucky numbers include 3, 4, 9 and their combinations (i.e. 34, 49, 349). Favorable colors include red, green and purple, while rose and cymbidium orchids make good flowers.

Meanwhile, lucky months include the 6th, 10th and 12th Chinese lunar months, while days include the 7th and 28th of every lunar month. East, south and northeast are considered to be favorable directions.

On the flip side, Dogs may want to avoid/be more vigilant on: colors blue, white and gold; numbers 1, 6 and 7; the 5th and 8th Chinese lunar months; and the direction of southeast.

While the upcoming Chinese New Year is all about them, Dogs must expect waves of challenges, according to a forecast from Travel China Guide.

One area would be on financial stability. It is said that their failed investments may lead to imbalances in income and expenses. Consequently, their financial status could be down from last year.

Dogs may also expect changes in their careers. High pressure can result to exhaustion, which then leads to diminished health. A reasonable work-life balance is recommended.

Finally, in terms of compatibility, Dogs are believed to best paired with Horses, Rabbits or Tigers — the worst pairings are with Dragons, Goats, Roosters and Sheep.

Rabbits in particular are the perfect match, due to similar traits and common hobbies, but perhaps more importantly, the two signs tend to understand each other and face challenges in sync.

There are countless interpretations and forecasts surrounding the Year of the Dog on the internet, but it is important to note that we still determine our future with whatever we do at present.

I myself am a Wood Dog, and while I anticipate hurdles in the upcoming year, there is absolutely nothing to worry if I pay enough attention to all aspects of my life.