Rooster and Dog
Rooster and Dog are one of the “Six Harms” pairs (六害) of the Chinese zodiac; their fixed elements are Metal and Earth. The nominal compatibility score is 55%. Below is how it's arrived at under the traditional rules and what it means in practice.
How compatible they are
These signs share no triangle and don't directly oppose each other, but they form one of the six “harming” pairs (六害). Tradition sees hidden friction in this pairing: there may be no open quarrel, but small grievances and misunderstandings pile up. This is milder than opposition, but it's important to voice expectations out loud.
What each brings to the pair: the Rooster, order, honesty and a readiness to say the truth out loud; the Dog, loyalty, fairness and a readiness to protect.
An important caveat: in this horoscope the Chinese year doesn't start on January 1 but on the day of Lichun — February 3, 4 or 5. If you were born in January or early February, check your sign with the calculator, or you may be reading someone else's page.
In love
The Rooster courts conspicuously and expects clear commitment in return. The Dog bonds for the long haul and tests the partner's decency.
The Rooster wants recognition and attention to their work; the Dog, honesty and the certainty that they won't be deceived.
In marriage and at home
The Rooster runs the household by the rules and demands the same of the partner. The Dog runs the household conscientiously and without show.
In friendship and at work this pair is usually calmer than in marriage: at work the job sets the boundaries, while at home they have to be talked through.
The pair's weak spots
In a conflict, the Rooster criticizes out loud without noticing how much it hurts. The Dog worries and suspects where there's no reason to.
The main risk is things left unsaid: small grievances pile up and break out where no one expected them.
Advice for the pair
- For every criticism, the Rooster should find one word of appreciation.
- The Dog should voice their fears before they turn into accusations.
- For both: voice your expectations in advance, not after you've been hurt.