Chinese name: GOU Order: Eleventh Ruling hours: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Direction of the Sign: West-North-West Season and Month: Autumn - October Western Sign: Libra Fixed Element: Metal Root: Positive

This may well be the nicest sign of the entire Chinese cycle. Those born in the Year of the Dog are honest, intelligent and sincere. They have a profound sense of loyalty, passion for justice and impartiality. They are usually lively, attractive and radiate sex appeal. Generally likeable and unpretentious, they get on with others as they aren't too demanding. The Equalitarian Dog loves meeting others and is always eager to listen to reason. If you have an honest Dog for a friend, remember to call him or her when you're in trouble. In fact, even if they protest, reprimand or feign indifference, those born in the Year of the Dog can never ignore a cry for help. Sometimes, they look after others' interests before their own. If someone gets you out of a pickle, 10 out of 10 times, it'll be a Dog. Those born in the Year of the Dog remain loyal to the object of their affection even when the latter doesn't deserve it. You'll never see a Dog leave the house just 'cos of a disagreement with his Master - he or she always takes human fragility into account and is always faithful. And if he or she does leave, there's usually a good reason as the Dog is no deserter. Like his equally humanitarian friend the Tiger, the Dog rarely gets angry with anyone and will never hate you forever. His or her anger is temporary. When angry, he or she is justified and will act without malice, rancor or jealousy. When things have been sorted out, the Dog can bury the hatchet. A careful, open observer, the Dog aims to defend the interests of everyone.