Chinese Zodiac Compatibility Guide
Chinese astrology has a clear system for compatibility, grouping the twelve animals into harmonious trines and opposing pairs.
The four trines
Animals four apart form a harmonious trine — like Rat, Dragon and Monkey, or Ox, Snake and Rooster. Members of a trine tend to understand and support each other.
The six clashes
Animals directly opposite in the cycle (six apart) — such as Rat and Horse — are said to clash, signalling friction that needs effort.
Secret friends
Each animal also has a 'secret friend' it pairs especially well with, like Rat and Ox — a quietly supportive match.
Check a pairing
Compare any two animals with our Chinese zodiac compatibility tool.