1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012

Powerful and mystical, Dragons are the only non-animal sign of the Chinese zodiac. They are often misunderstood, even feared, and can feel like misfits among their peers. Friends and family might find the Dragon hard to understand or a bit too hot to handle.

This sign does nothing halfway, and may dive into everything intensely, acting on pure instinct. In some cases, Dragons can be an acquired taste–the people who are accused of being “too much.” Once they find people who aren’t scared off by them, Dragons will pledge lifelong loyalty. To claim a spot in the Dragon’s inner circle, the rule is: go deep or go home!

With deep, soulful eyes that speak of many lifetimes, Dragons possess an inner wisdom that makes people sit up straight around them. Mysterious as this sign can be, the Dragon’s penetrating gaze cuts straight to your soul. If you sense that this child is reading you like a book, you’re probably right. Nothing slips through the cracks on a Dragon’s watch. Even as babies, this kid might track your every move.

Wisdom is the Dragon’s hallmark. For example, Dragon child might pipe up with spot-on advice when he overhears you complaining to a friend. Don’t expect the feedback to be gentle either. When the Dragon opens her mouth, she’s usually breathing fire. Just remember that in nature, fire purifies. The Dragon may burn your ego to cinders with the harsh words of truth.

Many Dragons have strong psychic or intuitive powers, and they soak up everything in their environments. They listen more than they talk, and really hear what’s being said. Although their silence can be intimidating, Dragons don’t mean to scare people. They’re just intense and keen observers who never back down from a fight. No wonder dragons are always assigned the job of guarding castles in fairy tales! As a parent, the Dragon will defend her child’s rights and stand up for any cause she believes in.

This sign possesses natural leadership, and is always ready for battle. Orlando Bloom, a Dragon, was perfectly cast as a warrior in Lord of the Rings. Dragons live to protect their loved ones, and innately sense when someone they care about is being threatened. Keep a Dragon on your good side, and you’ll always have a champion.

Western Sign: Aries

Compatible With: Rat, Monkey

Famous Dragons: Reese Witherspoon, Teri Hatcher, Orlando Bloom, Eva Mendes, Courteney Cox, John Lennon, Martin Luther King, Courtney Love

See another Chinese Zodiac sign