Year of the Dog: loyal to the core

Man’s best friend, zodiac edition

In the Chinese zodiac the dog stands for loyalty, honesty and protection, qualities most dog lovers will recognize. It is the eleventh animal in the cycle, and it is said to be a guardian of the home.

People born in a Dog year are often described as fair-minded, with a strong sense of right and wrong.

Personality

• Loyal friends who keep secrets and promises.
• Fairness: they speak up for the underdog.
• Responsible and dependable.
• Warm, with a dry sense of humor.

Growth edges

Dogs can be anxious or pessimistic, scanning for what could go wrong. Practicing gratitude or sharing worries with a friend lightens the load. They may also hold back, waiting to be sure of someone before opening up.

Since they care so much about being fair, they may struggle with in-between situations. Remembering that mistakes can be forgiven applies to themselves, too.

Love and friendship

Dogs are devoted, caring partners who value honesty above all. Traditional lore pairs Dog with Tiger and Horse (the harmony triangle) and Rabbit. Dragon is the traditional clash, but loyalty and communication can bridge it.

Work

Law, social work, teaching, healthcare, public service, security and advocacy suit the Dog. They like jobs that serve a purpose and teams that value integrity. A boss who is fair and clear about expectations gets years of loyal work from a Dog, and a workplace that cuts corners tends to wear them down. Everyday habits like a regular walk, time with friends or a pet help Dogs shake off the worry and stay steady.

Check your year

The year starts at Lunar New Year, not January 1. If you were born in January or early February, you may belong to the previous animal.