Introduction to Feng Shui Zodiac
The Feng Shui zodiac is based on a Chinese legend about the Jade Emperor who organized a race to decide the order of the 12 animals in the zodiac. According to the story, the Jade Emperor invited all the animals in the kingdom to join a race that would determine the order of the zodiac. The 12 animals that came to participate were the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. On race day, the animals had to cross a fast flowing river to reach the finish line. The order in which the animals finished determined their position in the zodiac.
The quick-witted Rat finished first by jumping on the back of the Ox and leaping off its head right before the finish line. The diligent Ox came in second, followed by the powerful Tiger who was slowed down while crossing the river. Next came the Rabbit, who hopped across on floating logs. Halfway through the river, the Dragon soared across the sky to come in fifth. Just behind was the Snake who slithered across cunningly. The Horse galloped in seventh, just ahead of the Goat who struggled to cross. The Monkey swung from tree to tree to finish ninth, while the Rooster spotted a raft and crossed the river hurriedly to come in tenth. The Dog almost finished eleventh, but got distracted playing in the water. Lastly, the Pig got hungry and stopped for a meal halfway, finishing twelfth.
And so the 12 animal signs of Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig make up the Chinese zodiac in that order. The Feng Shui zodiac is an integral part of Chinese culture, and many Chinese traditions and superstitions derive from the characteristics and compatibilities of the 12 zodiac animals.
The Dog in the Zodiac
In the Chinese zodiac, the Dog is the eleventh of the 12 animal signs. People born in the years 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, and 2018 are born under the sign of the Dog.
There are five elements in the Chinese zodiac that interact with the 12 animals – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. People born under the Dog sign are characterized by the element that ruled the year of their birth:
- Wood Dog: sociable, cooperative, and inspire others
- Fire Dog: dynamic, enthusiastic, and impulsive
- Earth Dog: patient, diligent, and generous
- Metal Dog: courageous, intense, and high self-esteem
- Water Dog: persuasive, empathetic, and faithful
In Chinese astrology, Dogs are said to be loyal, honest, cautious, kind, and prudent. They are known for their strong sense of loyalty and sincerity, and will do everything for the people they love. Dogs tend to be reliable and put the needs of others before their own.
In relationships, Dogs are intensely loyal and will rarely abandon a relationship. They seek security in partnerships and are willing to do anything to make their loved ones happy. Dogs are typically compatible with Rabbits and Tigers who share their humanitarian spirit.
Personality
Dogs are known for being loyal and honest companions (Year of the Dog, Personality and Horoscope 2024/2023). They have a strong sense of sincerity and loyalty that guides their actions. Dogs are cautious and prudent when faced with new situations or people. However, once they determine someone is trustworthy, they become fiercely loyal.
Despite their cautious nature, Dogs are also kind and generous, especially to their loved ones. They are always ready to lend a helping hand or offer support (Characteristics of the Earth Dog). Their friends and family think very highly of their giving nature.
Compatibility
Dogs are most compatible with Tigers, Horses, and Rabbits. According to Chinese astrology, the Tiger and the Dog complement each other perfectly and can build a strong bond. They balance each other’s strengths and weaknesses (source: https://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/social_customs/zodiac/dog/love-compatibility.htm). The Horse provides warmth that the Dog craves, while the Dog gives the Horse direction. Together they make an excellent match (source: https://www.karmaweather.com/horoscope/chinese-horoscope/dog-compatibility). The Rabbit’s calm nature soothes the Dog’s intense personality. They understand each other deeply and their romance can be long-lasting (source: https://www.chinatravel.com/chinese-zodiac/dog-compatibility).
The zodiac signs that Dogs are least compatible with are Dragons, Sheep, and Roosters. Dragons can be too dominating and proud for the Dog. Sheep’s passive nature frustrates the Dog, who needs more engagement. Roosters and Dogs often compete for dominance in the relationship, causing friction (source: https://www.karmaweather.com/horoscope/chinese-horoscope/dog-compatibility).
Career
Dogs are highly capable in many careers, excelling in leadership, justice, and teaching roles. Some of the best jobs and fields for Dogs include [https://www.yourchineseastrology.com/zodiac/dog-career/](https://www.yourchineseastrology.com/zodiac/dog-career/):
- Military
- Lawyer
- Judge
- Teacher
- Doctor
- Transportation leadership
- Campaign management
Dogs possess strong morals and a sense of justice that serves them well in legal professions like being a lawyer or judge. Their loyalty and commitment also enables them to be excellent leaders in fields like the military, transportation, or campaigns. Dogs are intelligent and good communicators, making them well-suited for teaching roles where they can share their knowledge with others.
Additionally, Dogs work well in service-oriented medical professions as doctors, nurses, or therapists. Their caring nature combined with their sharp mind helps them excel. Overall, Dogs thrive in careers where they can utilize their compassion, wisdom, honesty and leadership abilities to make a difference and serve a greater purpose.
Health
Dogs born in the year of the Dog generally have good energy levels, according to Feng Shui practices. However, as dogs get older, their energy levels can start to decline. It’s important for dog owners to make sure their dog gets adequate exercise for their age and breed to keep energy levels up. Some common health issues seen in dogs are hip and joint problems, eye issues, skin allergies, dental disease, and obesity. According to Feng Shui, keeping your dog’s environment clean and calm can help prevent health problems. Placing their bed in the health gua of your home supports wellness. Using natural cleaning products and keeping noise levels moderate creates positive energy flow. Regular visits to the veterinarian along with proper nutrition and exercise are also vital for maintaining good canine health, regardless of breed or age.
Wealth
Dogs have a cautious and conservative approach to money and investments [1]. They tend to save their money rather than spend frivolously. Dogs value financial security and stability, so they are not big risk-takers when it comes to their finances.
However, Dogs can sometimes be too conservative and miss out on potential money-making opportunities. They need to balance their natural risk-aversion with occasionally putting themselves out there financially. With some flexibility, Dogs can build substantial wealth over time through patience, diligence, and well-considered investments.
Overall, the Dog’s sensible approach to money helps them live comfortably within their means. But opening themselves up judiciously to calculated financial risks can allow the Dog to accumulate greater prosperity.
Love
When it comes to romance, Dogs are known for being loyal and devoted partners. According to Feng Shui beliefs, the best romantic matches for the Dog are the Tiger, Horse, and Rabbit. These signs balance well with the Dog’s intense and earnest nature in love. The loyal Dog does best with partners who crave stability in relationships.
For marriage, the Dog wants a lifelong, committed partner. They take relationships and fidelity seriously, so casual affairs are not for them. Once the Dog finds their true love match, they devote themselves fully to the relationship. Marriage provides the loyal Dog with the security and constancy they thrive on. Their ideal married life involves sharing a home with their soulmate, building routines together, and always having their spouse’s back.
Famous Dogs
Throughout history and popular culture, many notable Dogs have left their mark as celebrities, leaders, innovators, and icons. Some famous examples include:
Walt Disney was a pioneering animator, film producer and theme park creator born in 1901, the year of the Metal Dog. His creations like Mickey Mouse and Disneyland brought joy to millions around the world.Wikipedia
Mother Teresa, the Catholic nun who devoted her life to serving the poor, was born in 1910 during the year of the Dog. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work.Wikipedia
Bill Clinton, the 42nd president of the United States, was born in 1946, an Earth Dog year. He served two terms from 1993 to 2001 and was known for his charisma. Wikipedia
Steven Spielberg is one of the most influential film directors and producers, born during the 1946 Earth Dog year. His many blockbuster hits include E.T., Jurassic Park, and Saving Private Ryan. Wikipedia
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was also born in 1958 during the Earth Dog year. He transformed pop music and dance with hit songs like Beat It, Billie Jean, and Thriller.Wikipedia
Concluding Thoughts
In summary, the Dog holds an important place in Feng Shui astrology. As one of the 12 zodiac animals, the Dog embodies traits like loyalty, honesty, and kindness. Though they can sometimes be stubborn or critical, Dogs make devoted friends and partners. In Feng Shui, the Dog symbol is thought to offer protection and bring luck into various areas of life.
Understanding the Dog’s characteristics and compatibilities can provide guidance on relationships, careers, and more. Evaluating the Feng Shui elements of the Dog can optimize your environment for health, wealth, and love. With their unwavering faithfulness, Dogs serve as wise protectors. By embracing the Dog’s strengths and wisdom, we can build strong communities and bright futures.