Chinese Zodiac is a doctrine which dates back to more than two thousand years. It is based on the lunar cycle, which is believed to determine the zodiac sign a person is born under (as per his year of birth). Each zodiac has been given distinct set of attributes that contribute largely towards the personality of the individual born in it.

Below are the twelve zodiac signs in Chinese astrology, and the basic character traits they possess.

Rat

Rats are known to possess a good sense of humor, charm, and excellent social skills. People who are born under this sign are extremely ambitious and take every decision after careful analysis.

Ox

Oxen are strong-willed, stubborn, introvert, and patient. People born under this zodiac are systematic in their work. They are also extremely dependable and honest.

Tiger

Although tigers are known to be big-hearted and self-sufficient, people born under this sign are impulsive and pushy. Tigers are born leaders and have an air of authority surrounding them. Some of their characteristics consist of charm, courage, and moodiness.

Rabbit

Lying in the fifth position, this Chinese Zodiac is smart and sensitive. Rabbits are also known to be a little aloof. People born under this sign cannot be provoked easily, as they think twice before taking an action.

Dragon

Dragons are confident, multifaceted, resolute and meticulous. A person born under this sign is a born leader.

Snake

Snakes are master seducers. Some characteristics of people born under this sign include independence, intelligence, lethargy, intuitiveness and shrewdness. Snakes are also known to be jealous and insecure.

Horse

Horses are independent and free-spirited. Apart from this, they also exhibit qualities such as, gregariousness, alertness, and boldness. People born as horses are a little impatient.

Goat

Goat’s tend to worry a lot. Their other personality traits include sensitivity, thoughtfulness and generosity. By nature, Goats are creative and innovative.

Monkey

Monkeys are social, charismatic, and cunning. Other characteristics that people born under this sign possess are, excellent convincing power and lack of self-discipline.

Rooster

Roosters are not just efficient, but they are also systematic in everything they do. Other fundamental qualities of a Rooster include sincerity, intelligence, and bluntness. Roosters are not just trustworthy, they are also very loyal.

Dog

People born under this sign are honest, selfless, hard-working, and kind. Dogs make good listeners and are also very dependable. They are fun-loving and adventurous. They are best compatible with tiger and horse.

Pig/Boar

People born as pigs/boars are very sincere. Apart from this, other characteristics that they possess include sincerity, good principles and inflexibility.

Chinese Zodiac signs are known to have a strong effect on our personality, and our relationship with other people. However, they are not solely responsible for the way we act, feel or adjust in the society. There are several other factors that contribute to our compatibility and innate nature. Essentially, these signs only explain distinctive characteristics of human nature that we come across everyday.