The Chinese zodiac is a system of 12 animal signs that represent different personality traits and characteristics. According to the Chinese lunar calendar, each year is associated with one of these animals, and people born in that year are said to share some of their qualities. The order of the animals is based on a legend about a race among them, in which the rat was the first to finish by tricking the ox. The 12 animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.
- The Rat is quick-witted, resourceful and kind, but also private and frugal.
- The Ox is diligent, dependable and strong, but also materialistic and stubborn.
- The Tiger is brave, confident and competitive, but also idealistic and arrogant.
- The Rabbit is quiet, elegant and kind, but also sensitive and artistic.
- The Dragon is confident, intelligent and enthusiastic, but also outspoken and impatient.
- The Snake is enigmatic, intelligent and wise, but also curious and anxious.
- The Horse is animated, active and energetic, but also amusing and independent.
- The Goat is calm, gentle and sympathetic, but also easygoing and creative.
- The Monkey is clever, lively and inventive, but also mischievous and restless.
- The Rooster is observant, hardworking and courageous, but also proud and vain.
- The Dog is loyal, honest and faithful, but also cautious and stubborn.
- The Pig is generous, compassionate and diligent, but also naive and indulgent.