The 12 Chinese Zodiac Animals The Chinese Zodiac, also known as Sheng Xiao, is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal sign. According to the Chinese lunar calendar, the first day of the new year falls somewhere between late January and early February, and this year marks the Year of the Ox. Here are the 12 animals in the order of their appearance in the Chinese Zodiac: 1. Rat People born in the Year of the Rat are said to be intelligent, charming, and quick-witted. They are also known for their high energy and ability to adapt to new situations. 2. Ox The Ox represents hard work, honesty, and patience. People born in the Year of the Ox are reliable, conscientious, and tenacious. 3. Tiger Tigers are powerful, confident, and courageous individuals. They are also known for their leadership qualities, as well as being fiercely independent. 4. Rabbit People born in the Year of the Rabbit are gentle, kind-hearted, and compassionate. They also have a love for beauty and often have a refined taste. 5. Dragon Dragons are considered the most powerful and auspicious sign in the Chinese Zodiac. People born in the Year of the Dragon are known for their courage, intelligence, and charisma. 6. Snake Snakes are wise, enigmatic, and calculating individuals. They are often deep thinkers and excel in business and finance. 7. Horse Horses are energetic, adventurous, and independent. They are also known for their love of freedom and often have a strong sense of self-worth. 8. Goat People born in the Year of the Goat are gentle, artistic, and creative individuals. They are also known for their kindness and have a deep appreciation for beauty. 9. Monkey Monkeys are clever, playful, and mischievous. They are also highly intelligent and have a natural curiosity, which often leads them to explore new things and take risks. 10. Rooster People born in the Year of the Rooster are confident, hard-working, and flamboyant. They are also fiercely loyal and always speak their minds. 11. Dog Dogs are loyal, reliable, and protective individuals. They are known for their honesty and unwavering loyalty to their friends and family. 12. Pig Pigs are honest, kind-hearted, and easy-going individuals. They also have a great sense of humor and a love for food. In conclusion, the Chinese Zodiac is a fascinating way to understand someone's personality and character traits based on their birth year. Whether you are a Rat or a Pig, each animal sign has its unique qualities, and it's always interesting to see how they affect your life. So, what's your Chinese Zodiac sign, and do you agree with its description?