狗 (Gǒu)
The Dog is the eleventh animal in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing loyalty, honesty, and justice. People born in the Year of the Dog are known for their faithful nature, strong moral compass, and unwavering dedication to those they love.
Last updated: January 28, 2026
Receive love tarot insights and relationship wisdom in your inbox.
In Chinese culture, the Dog represents loyalty, protection, and good fortune. Dogs are considered guardians that ward off evil spirits and protect the home. Those born under this sign embody the Dog's faithful spirit and deep sense of right and wrong.
Stability, nurturing, and practicality. Earth types are reliable, grounded, and hardworking.
Yang represents active, dynamic, and outgoing energy. Yang animals tend to be assertive, adventurous, and action-oriented.
Dog people are the most loyal and trustworthy friends you can find. They have a strong sense of justice and will fight for what they believe is right, even at personal cost. Dogs are honest and straightforward, unable to tolerate deception or unfairness. They may seem cautious or pessimistic, but this comes from their protective nature. Once you earn a Dog's trust, you have a friend for life.
In relationships, Dogs are devoted and protective partners who take commitment seriously. They need time to build trust but once committed, they are loyal beyond question. Dogs value honesty and emotional security, struggling with partners who are deceptive or unpredictable. They may worry excessively about their relationships but this stems from deep caring. With the right partner who appreciates their devotion, Dogs are incredibly loving companions.
Dogs excel in careers that serve justice and protect others. Their reliability and strong work ethic make them valued employees and leaders. They perform best in roles aligned with their values where they can make a positive difference.
Best suited for careers as police officers, judges, lawyers, social workers, nurses, teachers, counselors, or non-profit workers. Dogs thrive in careers that allow them to help others and uphold justice.
Justice represents truth, fairness, and karmic balance. Like the Dog, Justice embodies the principle that right actions lead to right outcomes. Both are unwavering in their commitment to truth and fair treatment of all.
People born in these years are Dogs. Note that if you were born in January or February, check if your birthday falls before or after Chinese New Year to confirm your sign.
Winston Churchill
British Prime Minister
Born 1874
Madonna
Singer
Born 1958
Michael Jackson
Singer
Born 1958
Donald Trump
US President
Born 1946
Justin Bieber
Singer
Born 1994
In the Great Race, the Dog was a strong swimmer who could have placed higher. However, the Dog enjoyed playing in the water so much that it lost track of time, arriving eleventh. Some versions say the Dog stopped to help other animals cross or to take a much-needed bath after the long journey. This story reflects the Dog's nature: capable but easily distracted by enjoyment or the needs of others, valuing the journey over the destination.
The Protectors - brave, loyal, and principled. They achieve through action and standing up for what's right.
Common questions answered
Still have questions? We're here to help!
Contact Support →Discover different ways to gain insight and guidance through our free tarot card readings