6 things to know if you were born in the Year of the Dog

Take a few moments to get down with the dogs with our quick guide

Happy Year of the Dog from Time Out Beijing! From the mass human migration (known as Chunyun) that marks the start of the new lunar year until March 2's Lantern Festival, various observances and traditions will be taking place around the city, so it seems sensible to take a few moments to get down with the dogs with our quick guide. Here's what you need to know if you were born in the Year of the Dog.

Your dog horoscope

If you were born in 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994 or 2006, this is your year, so congratulations, right? Well, not entirely, as Chinese astrology dictates that the year of one's zodiac sign is actually likely to be their most unlucky in the 12-year cycle, so you'll need to be on your best behaviour.

Numbers

The numbers 3, 4 and 9 (and combinations of them) are expected to bring good luck for Dogs this year, while the numbers 1, 6 and 7 will be sources of misfortune. Err on the side of caution and opt for nine pints instead of one.

Colours

Red, green and purple are your go-to colours, while anything blue, white or gold could be an inauspicious omen. Be sure to splash out on red underwear for extra good luck, and turn down any gifts of gold jewellery.

Romance

If you're looking for love, try cosying up with a Horse or getting busy with a Rabbit. Steer clear of romantic engagements with Dragons, Goats or Roosters.

Directions

Even directions aren't safe. Everything southeast will be shrouded in bad luck – problematic, if you have any gap year-style jaunts planned around Southeast Asia. The northeast may hold more success, which is lucky for any Beijingers, and heading due south is also said to be a safe bet. Hiking in Hong Kong, anyone?

Famous dogs

Clockwise from left, we've got Prince William (1981), Kate Middleton (1982), Justin Bieber (1994), Donald Trump (1946), Mother Teresa (1910) and Michael Jackson (1958).

For our guide to Chinese New Year in Beijing, hit 'Read more'.

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