Many people check Chinese zodiac compatibility before dating or marrying. The 12 animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig) each have signs that fit them well and others that clash. This guide covers the best love matches and how they work.
How Compatibility Works in the Chinese Zodiac
Compatibility comes from two ideas: the Six Harmonies and the Four Pillars of Clash. The Six Harmonies pair animals that work well together. The Clash pairs are said to have more conflict. These ideas come from traditional Chinese astrology, which has been used for centuries.
Not everyone believes in zodiac compatibility. Many use it as a fun way to think about relationships. Even if you take it lightly, it can spark useful talks about personality and habits. Our content is for entertainment. See our about page for more.
The Six Harmonies: Best Love Matches
The Six Harmonies are six pairs of signs that support each other. In love, these pairs often share values and understand each other well. Here are the six harmony pairs.
| Sign 1 | Sign 2 | Why They Work |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | Ox | Rat brings wit, Ox brings stability. They balance each other. |
| Tiger | Pig | Tiger is bold, Pig is gentle. Pig softens Tiger; Tiger inspires Pig. |
| Rabbit | Dog | Both value loyalty and home. They create a safe, peaceful space. |
| Dragon | Rooster | Both are confident and driven. They push each other to succeed. |
| Snake | Monkey | Both are smart and curious. They never run out of things to talk about. |
| Horse | Goat | Horse brings energy, Goat brings creativity. A lively and caring pair. |
Rat Love Compatibility
If you are a Rat, you are smart, quick, and adaptable. You like someone who is steady and honest. The Ox is your best match in the Six Harmonies. The Dragon and Monkey are also strong partners for you. Rats tend to clash with Horses. For more on Rat traits, read our Rat personality guide.
Ox Love Compatibility
Ox people are loyal, hardworking, and reliable. They want a partner who respects their need for routine and commitment. The Rat is the top match. The Snake and Rooster also get along well with the Ox. Ox and Sheep can have rough patches. Our Ox characteristics article has more detail.
Tiger Love Compatibility
Tigers are brave, confident, and love adventure. They need a partner who can handle their strong personality. The Pig is the harmony match. The Horse and Dog also suit Tigers. Tigers and Monkeys often clash. Check our Tiger personality post for more.
Rabbit Love Compatibility
Rabbits are gentle, kind, and like peace. They pair well with the Dog in the Six Harmonies. The Goat and Pig are also good matches. Rabbits and Roosters can have tension. Learn more in our Rabbit zodiac guide.
Dragon Love Compatibility
Dragons are ambitious and charismatic. They often attract others easily. The Rooster is their harmony match. The Rat and Monkey also work well with Dragons. Dragons and Dogs may disagree often. Read our Dragon sign for deeper insight.
Snake Love Compatibility
Snakes are wise, strategic, and private. They prefer deep connections over many shallow ones. The Monkey is their harmony partner. The Ox and Rooster also match well. Snakes and Pigs can have issues. Our Snake wisdom article covers more.
Horse Love Compatibility
Horses are energetic and independent. They need freedom but also want love. The Goat is the Six Harmonies match. The Tiger and Dog get along with Horses too. Horses and Rats often clash. See the Horse zodiac for more.
Goat Love Compatibility
Goats are creative, gentle, and artistic. They thrive with a partner who gives them space and support. The Horse is the top match. The Rabbit and Pig also fit. Goats and Oxen can have friction. The Goat personality guide has extra info.
Monkey Love Compatibility
Monkeys are clever and playful. They like someone who can keep up with their wit. The Snake is the harmony match. The Rat and Dragon are also strong. Monkeys and Tigers tend to clash. Our Monkey sign explains more.
Rooster Love Compatibility
Roosters are honest, proud, and hardworking. They want a partner who values honesty. The Dragon is the Six Harmonies match. The Ox and Snake also pair well. Roosters and Rabbits can struggle. Check our Rooster guide for more.
Dog Love Compatibility
Dogs are loyal and protective. They seek a stable, trusting relationship. The Rabbit is the harmony match. The Tiger and Horse also suit Dogs. Dogs and Dragons may conflict. See the Dog section for details.
Pig Love Compatibility
Pigs are generous and calm. They like harmony and comfort. The Tiger is the best match. The Rabbit and Goat also work. Pigs and Snakes can have tension. Our Pig guide has more.
Why Use a Zodiac Calculator
Your Chinese zodiac sign comes from your birth year and Lunar New Year. If you were born in January or early February, your sign might differ from what you think. Use our zodiac calculator to confirm your sign. Then you can check compatibility with your partner or crush. Visit our categories for more articles on love and personality.
Compatibility Is Not Destiny
Even if your sign is said to clash with another, it does not mean the relationship will fail. Many happy couples have "incompatible" signs. The zodiac is one lens, not a rule. What matters more is respect, communication, and shared goals. Use compatibility as a starting point for conversation, not a verdict.
FAQs
What is the best Chinese zodiac match for marriage?
The Six Harmonies pairs (Rat-Ox, Tiger-Pig, Rabbit-Dog, Dragon-Rooster, Snake-Monkey, Horse-Goat) are traditionally the strongest. Marriage success depends on many factors, not just zodiac signs.
Can incompatible signs have a good relationship?
Yes. Compatibility is a guide, not a law. Many couples with "clashing" signs have happy, long relationships. Effort, communication, and respect matter more than astrology.
Do I need to know my partner's exact birth date?
For basic compatibility, you need the birth year. For Lunar New Year cutoff (January/early February births), the full date helps. Use our zodiac calculator to be sure.
Where can I find my Chinese zodiac sign?
Enter your birth date in our zodiac finder on the homepage. It handles Lunar New Year rules automatically.