In the Chinese zodiac 2026, it's the Year of the Horse. This period is traditionally associated with movement, independence, and momentum. The ancient Chinese zodiac system assigns a zodiac sign based on your birth year. These offer insight into personality traits, life patterns, and compatibility. Whether you're using our Chinese zodiac calculator to check your sign, asking yourself "What Chinese zodiac am I?", you can use this guide to find out how the zodiac works, what each animal represents, and how 2026 may pan out for you.
| Chinese Zodiac Animal | Core Personality Trait | Best Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | Clever and resourceful | Dragon, Monkey |
| Ox | Reliable and persistent | Snake, Rooster |
| Tiger | Brave and confident | Horse, Dog |
| Rabbit | Gentle and compassionate | Sheep, Pig |
| Dragon | Ambitious and charismatic | Rat, Monkey |
| Snake | Wise and perceptive | Ox, Rooster |
| Horse | Independent and energetic | Tiger, Dog |
| Sheep (Goat) | Kind and artistic | Rabbit, Pig |
| Monkey | Intelligent and adaptable | Rat, Dragon |
| Rooster | Observant and confident | Ox, Snake |
| Dog | Loyal and honest | Tiger, Rabbit |
| Pig | Generous and sincere | Rabbit, Sheep |
Chinese Zodiac Meanings
As the legend tells, the Jade Emperor needed 12 animals to guard his palace. He sent out a call across the lands, that the first 12 to reach him would win the honour. A contest of sorts ensued, with loyalty, trickery and gluttony determining the outcome.
The Emperor wanted the loyal, hard-working ox as his first animal. However, Ox's good nature left him open to Rat's trickery. Ox carried him across the river, and then Rat jumped off his back and rushed to the Emperor's side. Thus, Rat became the zodiac's first animal.
and years according to historic records.
The other animals arrived, singly or by twos and threes. The horse thundered into the Emperor's sight, with Snake wrapped around its leg. The sight of Snake frightened Horse, causing him to fall behind. So, the zodiac reflects the Snake arriving ahead of the Horse. Sheep, Monkey and Rooster worked together to get across the river. Pleased with their collaborative spirit, the Emperor awarded them their places in that order.
This legend reflects many of the traits people born under each Chinese zodiac sign embody.
As you read through each animal's description, you'll find echoes of this origin story. Often, they will clash with Western perceptions of these animal traits. For instance, we don't think highly of rats, but the Chinese zodiac finds them clever and resourceful.
zodiac signs, each represented by an animal.
The zodiac is one aspect that makes the Chinese New Year special. Far from being something to chuckle over, many cultures take zodiac meanings very seriously. People will go so far as to consult with fortune-tellers for guidance on how to navigate their zodiac animals' bad years.
The Chinese zodiac and Western astrology both explore personality and life patterns, but they work in very different ways. Western astrology assigns zodiac signs based on birth dates and months, while the Chinese zodiac assigns a zodiac sign based on birth year. This means Chinese zodiac signs are often used to explore long-term traits, compatibility, and life cycles rather than daily predictions.
Another key difference is timing. The Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar, so zodiac years usually begin in late January or early February. This is why someone born early in the year may belong to the previous zodiac sign, depending on the Lunar New Year date.
The Rat - (鼠 shǔ)
| The Rat | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020 |
| Core Personality Traits | Clever, adaptable, quick-witted, resourceful |
| Lucky Colours | Black, gold, blue, green |
| Unlucky Colours | Yellow, brown |
| Lucky Numbers | 2, 3, 6, 8 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 4, 5, 9 |
The Rat Personality
Rats are quick-witted, versatile, and adaptable. Rats tend to be optimistic and outgoing, and they're often considerate of others.
The legend says that Rat and Cat rode across the river, together on Ox's back.
We know Rat tricked Ox by jumping off and running ahead.
However, Rat also pushed Cat off Ox's back mid-river.
So, the Chinese zodiac does not feature Cat
But other cultures that use this system sometimes do.
Self-centredness is one of Rat's most dominant negative traits. Rats can also be stubborn and picky, and may be a bit shy. At their worst, Rats may lack persistence, leaving hard tasks undone.
Rat Compatibility
Anything creative: writing, photography, painting, fashion.
Also: medicine, engineering, and finance are suitable Rat career fields.
Best with Dragon, Monkey, Ox
Fine with Tiger, Rabbit, Snake, Rooster, Dog, Pig
Bad with Horse; Avoid Sheep
Rat - 2026 Forecast
As the Horse year is all about quick decisions and outward momentum, Rats may find 2026 demanding. Luckily, Rats are naturally strategic, so this year will reward careful prioritisation. Clarity and honesty will help with personal matters, and steady planning and attention to well-being will help Rats confidently navigate 2026.
The Ox - (牛 niú)
| The Ox | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021 |
| Core Personality Traits | Reliable, patient, determined, honest |
| Lucky Colours | Green, red, purple |
| Unlucky Colours | White, blue |
| Lucky Numbers | 3, 8 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 6, 9 |
The Ox Personality
Ox is calm and persistent, hard-working and honest. People born in Ox years are strong-willed, yet tolerant. On the downside, Ox can be stubborn and clumsy, especially with words. The overcautious Ox may also be unsociable, at times.
Many who ask this question look at these traits and wish to be a different animal.
Keep in mind that all Chinese zodiac meanings have ups and downsides.
Ox Compatibility
Anything requiring persistence: law, medicine, technician; and work that demands even temper: police, politics, teaching, government work.
Best with Snake, Rooster, Rat
Fine with Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Monkey, Dog, Pig
Bad with Sheep; Avoid Horse
Ox - 2026 Forecast
2026 is a key year of adaptability for Oxen. Long-term effort will still pay off, but progress may come through unexpected shifts rather than routine paths. Patience and open communication will be key to relationships. Oxen who stay true to their values while remaining flexible will make the most of the year.
The Tiger - (虎 hǔ)
| The Tiger | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022 |
| Core Personality Traits | Brave, confident, loyal, assertive |
| Lucky Colours | Grey, white, blue, purple, orange, black |
| Unlucky Colours | Gold, silver, brown, pink |
| Lucky Numbers | 0, 1, 3, 4, 5 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 6, 7, 8 |
The Tiger Personality
Tigers are confident and brave, loyal and trustworthy. It would be hard to find a dishonest Tiger, or one that's not steadfast. Still, Tigers are bossy and often act rashly. They can also be short-tempered and are typically arrogant.
Tiger Compatibility
Leadership positions or solo work, such as explorer or politics. Outdoor work, particularly sports activities, and cultural installations, fit well, too.
Best with Horse, Dog, Pig;
Fine with Rat, Ox, Rabbit, Dragon, Sheep, Rooster
Bad with Monkey Avoid Snake
Tiger - 2026 Forecast
The Horse year is a good one for the Tiger's bold nature. Tigers will feel motivated to pursue leadership roles, new projects, or personal challenges in 2026. Courage and independence are recommended. Balance action with reflection to avoid burnout and use thoughtful decision-making to turn enthusiasm into sustainable success.
The Rabbit - (兔 tù)
| The Rabbit | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023 |
| Core Personality Traits | Gentle, compassionate, polite, cautious |
| Lucky Colours | Black, pink, purple, blue, grey, red |
| Unlucky Colours | Brown, yellow, white |
| Lucky Numbers | 3, 6, 9 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 1, 7, 8 |
The Rabbit Personality
If you've ever wondered "What Chinese zodiac am I?", be happy if our calculator shows you're a rabbit. Rabbits are gentle, considerate, friendly, and compassionate. On the downside, Rabbits find it hard to make decisions, and they're very timid. Rabbits can also be stubborn, especially when it comes to virtue.
Rabbit Compatibility
Anything nurturing: teacher, farmer, working with animals, or a place in the ministry. Some artistic endeavours are good choices for Rabbits.
Best with Sheep, Dog, Pig
Fine with Rat, Ox, Tiger, Snake, Horse, Monkey
Bad with Rooster; Avoid Dragon
Rabbit - 2026 Forecast
Rabbits will find their emotional resilience tested in 2026. The fast tempo of the Year of the Horse means Rabbits have to carefully choose commitments rather than trying to keep up with everything. Maintain balance with supportive relationships and clear boundaries. Focus on stability to grow without unecessary stress.
The Dragon - (龙 lóng)
| The Dragon | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024 |
| Core Personality Traits | Ambitious, energetic, confident, charismatic |
| Lucky Colours | Yellow, green, blue |
| Unlucky Colours | Red |
| Lucky Numbers | 1, 6, 7 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 2, 8, 9 |
The Dragon Personality
Dragon's Chinese zodiac personality is confident and ambitious, energetic and intelligent. Dragons are generous and honest in all their dealings. However, they can also be conceited and unrealistic, demanding and unstable. Dragons also suffer from a lack of persistence and can be intolerant at times.
Dragon Compatibility
Any communication work: teacher, writer, or politician. Dragons are great with finance, so banking, cashiering, or anything along that line.
Best with Rat, Monkey, Rooster
Fine with Ox, Tiger, Horse, Sheep, Pig
Bad with Dog
Avoid Rabbit
Dragon - 2026 Forecast
Dragons will find themselves well-suited to the Year of the Horse. 2026 is a year of ambition, visibility, and expansion, particularly in areas of communication or leadership. Success will depend on cooperation and confidence. Grounded and realistic Dragons will find sustained progress throughout the year.
The Snake - (蛇 shé)
| The Snake | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025 |
| Core Personality Traits | Wise, perceptive, graceful, analytical |
| Lucky Colours | Red, light yellow, black |
| Unlucky Colours | White, gold, brown |
| Lucky Numbers | 2, 8, 9 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 1, 6, 7 |
Snake is the Chinese New Year animal for 2025. To greet people properly in the Year of the Snake, you can say 'Happy Snake Year!' (shé'nian'hǎo - 蛇年好). Beware, though, that that phrase is not suitable for everyone. You must learn the right Chinese New Year greetings for every situation.
The Snake Personality
Snakes are graceful, wise, and good at speaking. Snakes are also perceptive and funny, and are quite sociable. Snakes can be very determined and more than a touch jealous. They have a suspicious nature and can be sly and untrustworthy.
Snake Compatibility
Snakes excel as politicians, designers, or psychologists. Also, Snakes are great at anything in arts and entertainment.
Best with Ox, Monkey, Rooster
Fine with Rat, Dragon, Rabbit, Horse, Sheep, Dog
Bad with Pig; Avoid Tiger
Snake - 2026 Forecast
Snakes are encouraged to act more openly and decisively during the Year of the Horse. They may feel heightened energy and motivation during the year. This is a year that requires trust in judgement rather than prolonged hesitation. In their relationships, Snakes should strengthen trust with transparency. Balance your intuition with action to support steady advancement.
The Horse - (马 mǎ)
| The Horse | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026 |
| Core Personality Traits | Energetic, independent, warm-hearted |
| Lucky Colours | Blue, red, gold, yellow |
| Unlucky Colours | Orange, green, dark green |
| Lucky Numbers | 1, 4, 5, 7, 9 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 2, 3, 6 |
The Horse Personality
Horses are patient and warm-hearted. They have an independent spirit and tend to be easygoing. You can count on a steady temperament and an upright demeanour from any Horse you meet. That sounds like Horse is the luckiest Chinese zodiac sign, but this majestic creature has its pitfalls. Vanity and extravagance are among them. Horses can also be opinionated, outspoken, and inflexible in their views.
Horse Compatibility
Discovery is Horse's trademark, so adventuring, entrepreneurship, or science are great fields. Their outspoken side might lead them to politics or marketing and sales.
Best with Tiger, Sheep, Dog
Fine with Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Monkey, Rooster
Bad with Rat
Avoid Ox
Horse - 2026 Forecast
The horse is the central sign of the Chinese zodiac 2026. Horses will feel heightened energy and motivation throughout the year, making it a great period for independence, travel, and pursuing long-standing goals. Don't forget that meditation is essential for managing stress levels and maintaining supportive connections.
The Sheep - (羊 yáng)
| The Sheep | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027 |
| Core Personality Traits | Kind, artistic, gentle, reliable |
| Lucky Colours | Green, red, purple |
| Unlucky Colours | Gold, brown |
| Lucky Numbers | 2, 3, 4, 7, 9 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 6, 8 |
Several cultures follow this zodiac system, but each has its own variations.
In China, Sheep (Ewe or Ram) prevails, but in Vietnam, the goat is the eighth animal.
The Sheep Personality
Ewes are soft-hearted and considerate, reliable and thrifty. People can depend on the gentle Ewe. But not too much, as Rams tend to be indecisive and weak-willed. They are moody and often pessimistic, and too timid to stand up for themselves.
In 2014, Chinese couples rushed to marry ahead of the upcoming Ram year.
During 2015, China registered record low marriage and birth rates, as couples wanted to avoid an ill-fated marriage, and having a Ewe baby.
Full disclosure: I was living in China at the time. The media reported on that phenomenon throughout the year. One of the Chinese New Year's most fascinating aspects is how people will plan their lives, families, and careers around the Chinese zodiac.
Sheep Compatibility
Taking orders is what they're good at, so service industry jobs are perfect for Sheep. They may express their artistic side, as a writer, painter or musician.
Best with Rabbit, Horse, Pig
Fine with Tiger, Dragon, Snake, Monkey, Rooster, Dog
Bad with Ox
Avoid Rat
Sheep - 2026 Forecast
As a year of speed and competition, Sheep may find 202 challenging. Find progress through collaboration, creativity, and maintained emotional grounding. Routine and self-care will be essential. Focus on supportive environments to navigate change effectively.
The Monkey - (猴 hóu)
| The Monkey | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028 |
| Core Personality Traits | Intelligent, curious, innovative, confident |
| Lucky Colours | White, blue |
| Unlucky Colours | Red, black, grey |
| Lucky Numbers | 1, 3, 4, 7, 8 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 2, 5, 9 |
The Monkey Personality
Monkeys are intelligent, self-assured, enthusiastic, and innovative. If the answer to "what is my Chinese zodiac sign?" is Monkey, you'll find yourself discoursing at length, for Monkeys are eloquent. Those very traits make Monkeys arrogant and jealous, though. They tend to be impatient and opportunistic, lacking the perseverance to see anything through.
Monkey Compatibility
Anything with lots of variety: entertainer, athlete, or stockbroker. Monkeys are great in 'logical' jobs like programming and detective work.
Best with Rat, Dragon, Snake
Fine with Ox, Rabbit, Horse, Sheep, Rooster, Do
Bad with Tiger; Avoid Pig
Monkey - 2026 Forecast
2026 is a great year for the curious and adaptable Monkey. Learn new skills, explore varied interests, and experiment with fresh ideas in the Year of the Horse. Monkeys should set clear priorities and turn opportunity into achievement by following through.
The Rooster - (鸡 jī)
| The Rooster | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029 |
| Core Personality Traits | Observant, confident, hardworking, direct |
| Lucky Colours | Gold, brown, yellow |
| Unlucky Colours | White, green |
| Lucky Numbers | 5, 7, 8 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 1, 3, 9 |
The Rooster Personality
Roosters are ambitious, capable, quick-witted and confident. The outgoing Rooster has great foresight and is fiercely independent. For all that, Roosters can be remarkably narrow-minded and selfish. They tend to be critical and impatient, often sabotaging their own success through overconfidence.
Rooster Compatibility
Anything public-facing - politics, public speakers, or diplomats, are ideal Rooster careers. Roosters also make great actors!
Best with Ox, Dragon, Snake
Fine with Rat, Tiger, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Pig
Bad with Rabbit; Avoid Dog
Rooster - 2026 Forecast
2026 will be a productive but demanding year for Roosters. The Year of the Horse is one for initiative, organisation, and clear goals, especially in professional settings. Roosters' personal relationships can maintain harmony through flexibility and diplomacy. Let go of perfectionism to enjoy smoother progress.
Among traditional foods to eat on Lunar New Year, you'll find a whole chicken - head, feet, and all. As the superstition goes, the bird's feet symbolise the power to grab wealth. Tradition dictates that the head of the household should eat them.
The Dog - (狗 gǒu)
| The Dog | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030 |
| Core Personality Traits | Loyal, honest, responsible, protective |
| Lucky Colours | Black, green, red, purple |
| Unlucky Colours | Blue, white, gold |
| Lucky Numbers | 3, 4, 9 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 1, 6, 7 |
The Dog Personality
Like the four-legged friends we know today, zodiac Dogs are loyal, reliable, righteous, and quick-witted. Brave Dogs are also clever and responsible. But they are emotional and stubborn. Zodiac Dogs can be impatient and conservative in their views.
Dog Compatibility
Any position that requires trust: lawyers, teachers, doctors, or civil servants. Thanks to their cleverness and imagination, any creative venture is a good fit for Dogs.
Best with Tiger, Rabbit, Horse
Fine with Rat, Ox, Snake, Sheep, Monkey, Pig
Bad with Dragon
Avoid Rooster
Dog - 2026 Forecast
2026 will be a year of responsibility and trust for Dogs. Commitments in work or family life will offer opportunities to demonstrate your reliability and integrity. Honest communication and healthy boundaries will improve your mental well-being. Listen to your instincts to navigate the year.
The Pig - (猪 zhū)
| The Pig | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Years | 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031 |
| Core Personality Traits | Generous, sincere, optimistic, warm |
| Lucky Colours | Yellow |
| Unlucky Colours | Red, blue |
| Lucky Numbers | 2, 5, 6, 8 |
| Unlucky Numbers | 3, 4, 9 |
The Pig Personality
Pigs are warm-hearted and sincere. Pigs are generous to a fault and often too honest for their own good. You can count on Pig friends to deliver daily doses of optimism. We think of pigs as lazy and shiftless; the Chinese zodiac sees the Pig as slow-witted and sleepy. The gullible Pig is often jealous and loses its temper when others get the best of them.
Pig Compatibility
Nurturing jobs suit Pigs the best: agriculture and animal care; perhaps even doctor or civil servant.
Best with Tiger, Rabbit, Sheep
Fine with Rat, Ox, Dragon, Horse, Dog Bad with Snake; Avoid Monkey
Pig - 2026 Forecast
Pigs will have to pace themselves carefully during the Year of the Horse. Balance generosity with personal needs through thoughtful planning and moderation. Match openness with self-care to help your relationships to flourish. For a calmer, more rewarding year, consider prioritising health and rest.
If Pig is your answer to "What Chinese zodiac am I?", you might wonder why Pig is last. According to the legend, he stopped to eat along the way and then grew sleepy, so he had a nap. Speaking of eating... To sample all the delicious foods of a traditional Lunar New Year feast, discover these recipes for New Year foods.
years. It's formed by combining the 12 zodiac signs with yin and yang energy and the five elements.
In many Asian cultures, the Chinese zodiac is used as a practical guide rather than for entertainment. Zodiac years are often consulted when making decisions about marriage, business partnerships, career changes, and major life events. Certain years are viewed as more supportive for growth, while others are approached with caution.
This does not mean outcomes are predetermined. Instead, the zodiac is traditionally used as a framework for awareness, encouraging people to plan carefully, manage expectations, and align their actions with the year's broader energy.
Summarise with AI:
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
