In Chinese astrology, some animal signs are said to clash. These pairs often have different values, communication styles, or goals. They may avoid each other or argue more. This guide explains the Six Clashes and how to handle them. Clash does not mean failure. Many clash pairs have strong relationships with effort.
What Are the Six Clashes?
The Six Clashes are six pairs of signs that sit opposite each other in the zodiac cycle. Tradition says these pairs have more tension and fewer natural ties. The clashes are: Rat–Horse, Ox–Goat, Tiger–Monkey, Rabbit–Rooster, Dragon–Dog, and Snake–Pig. Each pair has different reasons for friction. Our content is for fun. See our about page for more.
| Clash Pair | Main Friction | Common Feelings |
|---|---|---|
| Rat + Horse | Security vs. freedom | Rat feels anxious; Horse feels trapped. |
| Ox + Goat | Routine vs. creativity | Ox feels scattered; Goat feels stifled. |
| Tiger + Monkey | Power and competition | Both want to lead; both resist backing down. |
| Rabbit + Rooster | Sensitivity vs. bluntness | Rabbit feels hurt; Rooster feels misunderstood. |
| Dragon + Dog | Pride vs. loyalty | Dragon feels criticized; Dog feels ignored. |
| Snake + Pig | Privacy vs. openness | Snake feels exposed; Pig feels shut out. |
Rat and Horse
Rats like security and planning. Horses like freedom and spontaneity. Rats may try to control; Horses may run from commitment. Trust is the main issue. Both need to meet in the middle: Rats give space, Horses show reliability. For more on Rats, see our Rat guide.
Ox and Goat
Oxen like structure and hard work. Goats like creativity and flexibility. Oxen may see Goats as lazy; Goats may see Oxen as rigid. Both need to value the other's strengths. Oxen can learn from Goats' creativity. Goats can learn from Oxen's discipline. Check the Ox and Goat guides.
Tiger and Monkey
Tigers are bold and direct. Monkeys are clever and playful. Both like to win. They may compete instead of cooperate. The fix: focus on shared goals. Let each person lead in their strengths. Our Tiger and Monkey guides have more.
Rabbit and Rooster
Rabbits are gentle and need kindness. Roosters are honest and blunt. Roosters may hurt Rabbits with harsh words. Rabbits may seem weak to Roosters. Roosters should soften their words. Rabbits should speak up calmly when hurt. See the Rabbit and Rooster guides.
Dragon and Dog
Dragons like to be admired and lead. Dogs are loyal but can be critical. Dragons may feel Dogs do not support them. Dogs may feel Dragons ignore their advice. Dragons should show appreciation. Dogs should pick their battles. Read our Dragon guide.
Snake and Pig
Snakes are private and strategic. Pigs are open and generous. Snakes may seem secretive to Pigs. Pigs may seem naive to Snakes. Snakes should share more. Pigs should respect alone time. The Snake and Pig guides explain more.
Why Some Signs Avoid Each Other
Clash pairs often have opposite needs. One wants security; the other wants freedom. One wants structure; the other wants flexibility. These differences can lead to friction. People may avoid each other or keep contact surface-level. In love or work, clash pairs need clear communication and compromise.
How to Improve Clash Pair Relationships
Accept Differences
Do not try to change your partner. Accept that you have different styles. Focus on what you share.
Communicate Clearly
Say what you need. Listen without judgment. Avoid blaming.
Give and Take
Take turns leading. Compromise on big decisions. For more tips, see our relationship harmony article.
Clash Pairs in Friendship and Work
Clashes affect more than romance. In friendship, clash pairs may drift apart or keep distance. In business, they may disagree on strategy or roles. Knowing you are in a clash pair can help. You can plan for differences instead of being surprised. Read our business partner and friendship compatibility guides.
Clash Is Not Destiny
Many people in clash pairs have happy relationships. Compatibility is one factor. Effort, respect, and love matter more. Use clash knowledge to understand friction, not to avoid someone. Use our zodiac calculator to confirm your sign. Browse categories for more on love and personality.
FAQs
Should I avoid dating someone in my clash sign?
No. Clash means more potential friction, not failure. Many clash couples have strong, happy relationships with good communication and compromise.
Are there more clashes besides the six?
Chinese astrology has other concepts (punishment, harm) that add nuance. The Six Clashes are the main pairs for compatibility. Our elements article covers more.
Can elements soften a clash?
Sometimes. The five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) add another layer. A Fire Rat and Water Horse may have different dynamics than a Wood Rat and Wood Horse. Elements can moderate or worsen a clash.
Where do I find my Chinese zodiac sign?
Use our zodiac finder on the homepage. Enter your birth date for your sign.