If you ask me, we could all stand to be a bit more like dogs. They’re intuitive, loyal, social, playful, courageous—all qualities we strive for, Noah Rubinstein, doctor of Chinese medicine and clinic director of The YinOva Center in New York City, points out.
And there’s no better time to get down with the dogs, at least according to the Chinese zodiac. On February 16, the Lunar New Year, we bid adieu to the crowing, confident Rooster and turn instead to man’s best friend.
“For the first time in a while we’re going to start to feel a bit more down to earth; a little less frenetic and less flamboyant than last year’s rooster, or even the previous year’s monkey.” —Noah Rubinstein, doctor of Chinese medicine
“The Chinese calendar rotates through 12 different animals as well as the five elements, with each year consisting of a combination of the two,” Rubinstein explains. This year pairs the Earth element with the dog for a grounded, altruistic vibe. “For the first time in a while we’re going to start to feel a bit more down to earth; a little less frenetic and less flamboyant than last year’s rooster, or even the previous year’s monkey,” says Rubinstein.
And as we cultivate our most canine qualities in this earthly environment, Rubinstein says, “it will open the space to create the world we want to see around us.” Sounds about right for the sure-to-be transformational 2018 ahead.
Below, Rubinstein shares 5 ways you can lap up all the goodness the Year of the Dog has to offer.
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1. Find your pack
It’s time to gather your squad, be it your family, your brunch crew, your BFF, your partner, or even a club you’re in or a political institution that you’re part of. Getting organized in groups provides cohesion and stability for us in an uncertain world. That’s what finding your pack is all about!
What the dog shows us is that these connections can be made without bringing a lot of ego to the equation. If you look at a pack of dogs, you see that it’s made up of all shapes, sizes, and scruffs—their association is about more than superficial identification. Dogs can be competitive, for sure, but they know that their connection brings them important fortunes that they couldn’t achieve on their own.
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This year will bring greater awareness of who we are and who we want to create a better world with, so when it feels like everything is going sideways, focus on the change you want to make in your community or your country. Now is the time to get involved.
2. Heighten your situational awareness
The dog’s keen senses and hyper-awareness of the surrounding world go beyond sight and smell: It can be downright intuitive. If you’re feeling blue, chances are, your pup will lay his head on your lap; if something is wrong or out of place, he’ll track down what it is. This may not always be easy; sometimes, dogs are anxious or stressed inside (just like we are!), but their inner fears rarely stop them from showing the courage we all wish we had.
But one thing that dogs really don’t like is surprises. This year, finding our “inner woof” will require stepping out of our bubbles and stepping up our awareness of what’s going on around us in our homes and the world. It may be scary at first, but this increased alertness will reduce some of the surprise factor, allowing us to feel more in control and able to be our own best guardians.
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3. Pace yourself
Have you ever played ball with or tried to hide something from a dog? They are ridiculously tenacious and will play until they run themselves sick. As you find people and communities that reflect your passions this year, take care not to drive yourself into the ground. Just because there is an opportunity to do something doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. You don’t have to chase every ball.
Also, be sure to check in with your health. The distractions of work and play can push our health into the out-of-sight, out-of-mind column. Your days may be busy, but don’t lose your life balance—even if you are the alpha.
4. Be of service
Here is a heartfelt shout-out to all the guiding, calming, bomb-sniffing, alarm-sounding service dogs out there: Thank you for helping to protect us from ourselves! Service is about understanding our own value while also seeing beyond ourselves and recognizing that we all have something to contribute to others around us. This is the greatest good we can aspire to.
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The Dog teaches us to be socially aware and engaged, but without the ego that the Rooster exhibited last year. This will be a year to practically integrate awareness of our own selves with the world around us. You can start small (in your own family, even, or in your neighborhood). It can be as simple as helping at a community garden, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or participating in a get-out-the-vote drive.
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5. Be mindful of your nutrition
A dog will eat anything—oftentimes, the wrong thing. If he spits it out, all is well. But if he doesn’t, things can get pretty ugly. In Chinese medicine, digestion is associated with the Earth element and provides the potential for transformation and growth. The Earth element this year guides us to be thoughtful about what goes into our bodies. Put good stuff in, and you’ll thrive. Eat junk, and it will all be a little harder.
Cultivating healthy nutrition for yourself this year isn’t just about food, though. It’s also going to be what you feed your mind and your heart to create a more whole you. So, in this Earth Dog year, take a cue from the family pet and be loving, loyal, and protective of yourself—just leave his eating habits on the table.
Self-soothing is the right call today. With the moon in strong, sensual Taurus in a favorable sextile to Big Daddy Saturn (and with a challenging opposition to unruly Uranus), your daily horoscope invites you into a deeper relationship with your body. Embodiment is a balm for any recent stress. This is all about getting centered, grounded, and feeling your connection to the earth beneath your feet. Sitting for a few minutes of meditation, spending a few moments in nature (even if it’s cold), savoring the flavors of your food, or cuddling with your partner are all excellent tools to protect your peace.
The moon is in your money zone today, reminding you to secure your resources and save up for a rainy day, Aries. With unstable Uranus in the mix, battening down the hatches of your second house of finances is a wise plan. Overspending is a big no-no right now, no matter how tempting the product or experience. Stick with simple, inexpensive luxuries to soothe your body.
Taurus
April 20–May 20
Your peak energy phase has arrived, Taurus, pushing you directly into the spotlight this Wednesday, ready or not. So why not just be ready? This is one of those moments when you can say, “woke up like this” and mean it. You’re getting that glow-up you’ve been waiting for, so use it well.
Gemini
May 21–June 20
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With the moon hanging out in your dream zone today, you could be out of it for a hot minute, Gemini. This can turn you inward for a bit, giving you time to reflect before you really put yourself out there. Once the moon shifts into your own sign later tonight, you’ll feel like you’re back online again.
Cancer
June 21–July 22
Your ruling luminary is moving through your eleventh house of social life, making you much more likely to come out of your shell. You’re just overall friendlier and more receptive to people outside your immediate circle of trust, Cancer. You might even connect with someone who could become your new bestie.
Leo
July 23–August 22
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As the moon in Taurus moves through your career zone today, you might feel equally stable and innovative, Leo. It’s all about using the foundation of what you’ve built professionally to propel you into new, unexplored territory. You’re mega-ambitious at the moment, and that’s the kind of thing that people in power are bound to notice.
Virgo
August 23–September 22
Wanna see the world, Virgo? That’s certainly what the stars want for you today. The moon is in your sister earth sign, moving through your ninth house of travel, adventure, and higher learning. You probably won’t be able to instantly skip town, but find other ways to satiate your hunger for exploration.
Libra
September 23–October 22
The moon is in your sexuality sector, Taurus, and because your ruler Venus has been in your relationship zone since early Tuesday morning, you may be a bit fixated on love and lust. There’s a way to give healthy focus to this part of your life without being obsessive, Libra, and you can strike that balance today.
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Scorpio
October 23–November 21
Now that the moon has dipped into your seventh house of relationships, you could be hyper-focused on partnership, Scorpio. And with anything-goes Uranus in the mix, something could come out of left field to throw you off. You could finally get over someone, which could take you by surprise. Or, on the other hand, you might suddenly feel ready for a much more intimate relationship.
Sagittarius
November 22–December 21
With the moon poised in your sixth house of daily activities, you can find new ways to get things done without causing undue stress. Rather than stuffing your schedule and feeling overwhelmed, aim to trim away the extraneous in favor of the meaningful—especially what makes you feel good and grounded, Sagittarius.
Capricorn
December 22–January 19
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The moon is in Taurus, an earth sign like your own, Capricorn. So not only are you in your own element today, but with lunar energy filling up your fifth house of love, romance, and creativity, much pleasure is available for you to access. Don’t leave anything that feels good on the table—you deserve to have it all.
Aquarius
January 20–February 18
The moon chilling in your domestic zone puts you in a homey mood, Aquarius. Still, with your modern ruler Uranus activated, there’s likely some kind of surprise around your humble abode. You might want to change your design scheme or move some furniture around to shift your perspective in your favorite room.
Pisces
February 19–March 20
Aim for healthy and direct communication today, Pisces. With the moon in your third house of talking, thinking, and texting, your head may be clear, but is it in tune with your heart? Make sure you speak from the gut without filtering yourself. But tap into your innate compassion so that whatever you express, you say it with love.
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You’re feeling tender at the start of your weekly horoscope for February 2 to 8, 2025, but there’s an opportunity for healing and growth by the end of the week. Old wounds resurface when Mars retrograde in Cancer clashes into Chiron in Aries on February 3. Someone may know exactly which of your buttons to press—and it can feel quite personal. Be gentle with yourself, and know that everyone is on edge today. Consider reflecting on the feelings that arise rather than rushing toward finding a solution.
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On the same day, February 3, Mercury in Aquarius mingles with Jupiter retrograde in Gemini. This planetary combo inspires optimism as well as out-of-the-box thinking. You could learn some lucky news or just feel more hopeful. New, exciting ideas and perspectives emerge. This is also a great time to gain attention for noteworthy causes, lead with generosity, and consider how to use your skills and wit to help others. Still to come on February 3, Venus, the planet of connection, moves into Aries. Venus will go retrograde in Aries on March 1, so pay attention to clues and themes that begin to emerge, especially in your relationships. When Venus is in Aries, people are more confident going after who they want and what they desire. New relationships can burn with passion but can also quickly fizzle out.
There’s a stroke of luck in the sky on February 4 when Jupiter stations direct in Gemini, and the retrograde ends! You could learn some encouraging news or experience a positive turn of events regarding some of your personal goals or relationships. You’re surrounded by support today and feeling extra grateful for your loved ones. There’s a first quarter moon in Taurus on February 5 that brings you back to the new moon in Aquarius that took place on January 29. You’re ready to take the first step to realize some of your dreams.
The North Node in Pisces, a point that has to do with your fate and destiny, connects with Neptune in Pisces on February 6. This can stir up karmic and fated events that involve themes of romance, creativity, spirituality, loss, self-sacrifice, and/or illusion. Everyone will experience this differently, depending on your birth chart, but one thing’s for sure: this cosmic combination can stir up a lot of big feelings.
You’re reaching new levels of intimacy and depth in your key relationships when Venus in Aries links up with Pluto in Aquarius on February 7. It’s time to open up and dive deep!
On the same day, the sun in Aquarius teams up with Chiron in Aries, bringing a helpful development regarding your healing journey. You might feel seen and supported for who you really are today. You’re also feeling more self-aware and proud of your own evolution. The week wraps up with Mercury in Aquarius connecting with Chiron in Aries on February 8. Similar topics and conversations will continue from the day prior, when the sun met with Chiron. You’re having meaningful, healing, and vulnerable conversations with those you appreciate.
Key astrological events for your weekly horoscope:
Monday, February 3: Mercury in Aquarius trine Jupiter retrograde in Gemini
Monday, February 3: Mars retrograde in Cancer square Chiron in Aries
Monday, February 3: Moon enters Taurus
Monday, February 3: Venus enters Aries
Tuesday, February 4: Jupiter Stations Direct in Gemini
Wednesday, February 5: First quarter moon in Taurus
Wednesday, February 5: Moon enters Gemini
Thursday, February 6: North Node in Pisces conjunct Neptune in Pisces
Friday, February 7: Venus in Aries sextile Pluto in Aquarius
Friday, February 7: Sun in Aquarius sextile Chiron in Aries
Saturday, February 8: Moon enters Cancer
Saturday, February 8: Mercury in Aquarius sextile Chiron in Aries
Aries
Your dreams are coming true, Aries, once Venus enters your sign on February 3. In the next few weeks, you have a cosmic advantage with one of the luckiest planets moving through your sign! You can use this energy however you desire—calling in a lover, aligned friendships, a dream job, or helping create the change you wish to see in the world. Your manifestation powers are top-notch, so buckle up and make the most of them!
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Conversations and negotiations pick up steam again when Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ends on February 4. If important discussions experienced setbacks for any reason, they may resume again—with a positive twist! This is a lucky time for negotiations, booking travel, and expanding your horizons to learn something new.
Your dreams feel extra potent and powerful when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, link up on February 6. Your intuition is next level and this is not the day to assume something is just a coincidence. You also have an all-access pass to your subconscious and can gain a rapid understanding of issues, patterns, and situations that have left you confused in the past. This can help you process some feelings and finally feel ready to move forward.
Taurus
Spending time alone can lead to some of your best ideas, Taurus, when Venus moves into Aries on February 3. You may have been working overtime and wearing yourself down in the process. Now that Venus is on your side, you can catch up on rest and quiet your mind with solo time. You may also find a spiritual practice or recharging habit to incorporate into your daily life.
Your financial issues begin to resolve thanks to Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ending on February 4. If discussions for a raise or promotion experienced delays, conversations may resume. A check could finally arrive if you’re waiting to be reimbursed for something. The cosmic energy helps you get back on track with your budget and build a sense of security for your future.
You’re mingling with glamorous or influential people when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, team up on February 6. A friend or someone in your network could put you in touch or recommend you for an opportunity of a lifetime. Your creativity and ingenuity are on full display, and people are eager to collaborate with you.
Gemini
You’re making progress on some of your goals, Gemini, once Venus moves into Aries on February 3. The next few weeks offer you extra luck when networking. This is an aligned time to share your ideas far and wide and to resist the urge to be shy and play small. People want to support you; you just need to put yourself out there and ask for help! You could also be more social and have some fun events to attend, or you’re focused more on building a community around you.
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Life feels more hopeful once Jupiter retrograde, in your sign, ends on February 4. Solutions to some of your most frustrating problems appear, and you can finally see the way forward. You could also have some positive developments in your relationships, career, living situation, or regarding your personal goals—especially if you choose to ditch your comfort zone and try something new!
It’s hard to ignore your intuition when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, sync up on February 6. You’re making big decisions based on your gut impulses regarding your life path and direction. You could have a heart-to-heart with an important person in your life or choose to switch gears and chase after a new calling that incorporates more of your creative and personal passions.
Cancer
Soak up the spotlight, Cancer, once Venus moves into Aries on February 3. You’re gaining attention, and people can’t seem to get enough of you or what you have to offer. This is the time to take a stab at going viral, launch a side business, ask for a raise, tell someone you love them—whatever desires you’re trying to call in, now is the time to go after them! A little bit of luck and support from others are on your side.
You feel guided and protected thanks to Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ending on February 4. Meaningful messages can appear in your dreams, or you may wake up with a strong intuitive urge to make a decision. This is an important day to lead with your heart over your head.
Conversations feel emotional and deep when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, conjoin on February 6. You could learn news that elicits a good cry, or maybe you’re the one who’s cracking open someone else’s heart. Words can be extra vulnerable and compassionate today. People are emotionally generous, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Leo
Things are looking up, Leo, thanks to Venus moving into Aries on February 3. You’re feeling hopeful about your future and craving more adventure. The next few weeks could inspire you to travel more, go back to school, or even focus on a writing project. You also have extra tact and charm in your communication skills, so go ahead and ask for what you want.
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Your dreams are moving full speed ahead once Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ends on February 4. If you’ve felt lost or confused about what direction you should head in next, some certainty finally arrives! You could receive an opportunity of a lifetime or just feel more self-assured about what direction you want to head in next. Some support for your aspirations and dreams can also manifest.
Avoid making big purchases if you can when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, link up on February 6. This is not the best day to swipe your credit card haphazardly. Save important financial decisions for another day. Emotionally, you could feel more sensitive, engage in some healing work, or spend time reflecting on the past.
Virgo
You’re ready to bare your soul to someone special, Virgo, when Venus moves into Aries on February 3. The next few weeks encourage you to open up and share secrets with someone you trust. Bonds can grow deeper, and you’ll feel grateful for your support system. This can help you clear up debt, get paperwork in order, and attract new contracts.
A new desire is calling your name when Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ends on February 4. You’re feeling inspired about your vision for your future and ready to take action to bring your idea to life. Maybe you’re ready to go back to school or step into a teaching capacity in some way. You could also gain more attention and recognition in your professional field, so put yourself out there and take risks!
You’re feeling sentimental and grateful for those nearest and dearest to you when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, team up on February 6. You could share a good cry with a loved one or simply feel overwhelmed by nostalgia. Maybe you’re spending time with a BFF who’s been by your side since you were a kid or opening up to a lover about the next steps in your relationship.
Libra
Connection is a priority for you, Libra, when Venus moves into Aries on February 3. If you’re single and ready to mingle, now is the time to put yourself out there! You could meet someone with long-lasting potential (if that’s what you’re seeking), and couples are more focused on nurturing their bond and shared future. You could also receive more contract and client work if love isn’t your priority. Collaboration of any kind is favored.
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A perspective shift leaves you hopeful and curious thanks to Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ending on February 4. Conversations feel especially meaningful and illuminating. You could share something especially vulnerable with a loved one or develop a new idea you want to put energy into. You’re thinking about your long-term future and coming up with steps to bring that vision to life!
You’re reflecting on your relationship with any self-sacrificing behaviors when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, sync up on February 6. You may need to be honest with yourself about your limits and how much you can take on. This is an important moment to say no, set boundaries, and focus on your self-care.
Scorpio
Life feels more manageable, Scorpio, thanks to Venus entering Aries on February 3. If you’ve been working hard on a project or commitment in your personal or professional life, you’re finally receiving the recognition you deserve! For some, this could look like heartfelt compliments and appreciation; for others, this could coincide with a raise or solution to a problem. You’ve also got the momentum to change your habits and lifestyle.
Emotions run high but also set you free when Jupiter retrograde in Gemini on February 4. You’re getting in touch with your vulnerable side and exploring some of the memories and feelings you’ve ignored. Carving out space to grieve, cry, or even accept past versions of yourself (or others) doing their best with the tools they had in their emotional toolboxes at the time can help set you free and start fresh.
You feel like you’re living in a rom-com when the North Node and Neptune team up on February 6. The romantic energy is palpable and can be off the charts! It can also be a little hazy and confusing. The energy is ripe for misunderstandings and illusions to fester. Try not to put others on a pedestal and pay attention if something feels too good to be true. There could be a romantic situation in your life that’s also run its course.
Sagittarius
You’ve got extra luck on your side, Sagittarius, thanks to Venus moving into Aries on February 3. You’re feeling passionate and excited about your future. For singles, this is a lucky time to date, and couples might want to explore their desires and intimacy in new ways. This can also help you access a new creative spark and bring lucky news.
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You’re exploring uncharted territory in your close relationships once Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ends on February 4. You could make a big decision regarding your shared future—whether it’s with a roommate, family member, lovers, or BFF. Conversations can lead to a shift in perspective but also open you up to new possibilities in your future.
Nostalgia is unavoidable when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, meet up on February 6. You may be overdue for a good cry! That’s OK, give yourself space to feel what comes up for you. This could also be a moment where you’re feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for your family and friends. Your intuition and dream world are also overactive and accurate, so listen to your gut.
Capricorn
Some drama in your personal life finally cools down, Capricorn, once Venus enters Aries on February 3. If you’ve been fighting with roommates, family members, or your landlord, tensions begin to subside. You can find common ground and get your relationship back on track. This could also be a period when you spend more time at home or with your loved ones. Maybe you’re craving a quiet, nurturing environment that makes you feel safe and comforted.
You’re wrapping up a big project or receiving overdue recognition or help once Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ends on February 4. If your daily routine has felt overwhelming the past few weeks, some relief finally shows up! Solutions to your problems can appear, and you can also make amends and let go of petty disagreements. Setting boundaries can also help you find more alignment in your everyday routine.
Conversations are compassionate, tender-hearted, and emotional when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, conjoin on February 6. This is a beautiful moment to open up and tell someone how you really feel or even share a secret or something vulnerable with someone you love and trust. You could also learn about an opportunity that feels creatively aligned and like it’s meant to be!
Aquarius
You’re speaking from the heart, Aquarius, thanks to Venus entering Aries on February 3. The next few weeks will give you the upper hand in expressing yourself. This is an ideal time to apply for jobs, negotiate new contracts, or tell someone you love them. There might also be a new subject that captures your attention, and maybe you’re considering signing up for a class or investing more of your free time to learn something new.
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Your inspiration returns, and you feel motivated and hopeful about what lies ahead, thanks to Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ending on February 4. You could learn lucky news or just feel like you’re in the right place at the right time. If you’ve struggled with a lack of creative inspiration, you can catch a new stride. This can also bring exciting changes to your romantic relationships.
You’re focused on your finances when the North Node and Neptune, both in Pisces, meet on February 6. It’s possible that a contract or project that feels too good to be true starts to lose its luster. On the other hand, you could also learn about a work opportunity that feels meaningful and spiritually aligned. This is also lovely energy for donating and supporting causes and organizations you believe in.
Pisces
Here comes the check you’ve been waiting on, Pisces, thanks to Venus entering Aries on February 3. You might start to feel back on track with finances or even learn about a potential raise or promotion. New job or contract opportunities could also land in your inbox. The next few weeks can also remind you of what makes you stand out amongst the crowd and give you a well-deserved self-esteem boost.
You’re feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for your chosen family thanks to Jupiter retrograde in Gemini ending on February 4. You could learn some hopeful news about a living situation or a family member. This could also stir up some sentimental feelings, but spending time reflecting on your past can help you come up with solutions to problems or new ideas you want to pursue.
You’re the main character when the North Node and Neptune, both in your sign, come together on February 6. The glamour is next level, and you’re attracting who and what you desire. People might feel like you’re also more of an enigma than usual—that’s OK, leave them confused and wanting more!
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