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Chinese Zodiac Signs and Matching Plush Toys
Chinese zodiac
Twelve animal signs to discover
The Chinese zodiac consists of twelve animal signs that repeat in a fixed sequence. Each sign is traditionally associated with particular qualities and meanings. This page introduces the animals, their customary symbolism and matching plush toys as personal gift ideas.
Important: A Chinese zodiac year does not change on 1 January. It begins at Lunar New Year on a date in January or February that varies from year to year. Anyone born in January or February should therefore check the exact Lunar New Year date for their birth year. The qualities below are traditional cultural associations, not a scientific assessment of personality.
The pictures illustrate the animal signs. The selection in the linked categories may change.
Rat
(1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032)
The Rat begins the cycle and is traditionally associated with resourcefulness and new beginnings. A rat plush toy is an original gift idea for anyone who feels connected to this animal sign.
Ox / Buffalo
(1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033)
The Ox is traditionally associated with hard work and dependability; in Chinese art, the sign may also be represented by a water buffalo. An ox, cow or buffalo plush toy reflects this steadfast zodiac animal.
Tiger
(1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034)
The Tiger is traditionally associated with courage, strength and confidence. A tiger plush toy is an expressive gift idea for anyone who feels connected to this powerful sign.
Rabbit
(1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035)
The Rabbit traditionally represents longevity, peace and prosperity. A rabbit plush toy makes a gentle and personal reminder of this zodiac animal.
Dragon
(1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036)
The Dragon is traditionally associated with power, good fortune and creativity. A dragon plush toy represents the only mythical creature among the twelve zodiac animals.
Snake
(1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037)
The Snake is traditionally associated with wisdom, charm and transformation. A snake plush toy is an unusual gift with a direct connection to this zodiac sign.
Horse
(1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026, 2038)
The Horse is traditionally associated with energy, strength and resilience. A horse plush toy is a fitting choice for anyone who particularly likes this lively animal sign.
Goat / Ram
(1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027, 2039)
Depending on the translation, this sign may be called the Goat, Sheep or Ram. It traditionally represents kindness, peace and inner strength. A goat or sheep plush toy makes a suitable gift idea.
Monkey
(1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028, 2040)
The Monkey is traditionally associated with agility, cleverness and curiosity. A monkey plush toy playfully reflects the lively character of this animal sign.
Rooster
(1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029, 2041)
The Rooster is traditionally associated with punctuality, confidence and ambition. A rooster plush toy is a distinctive gift idea for someone born under this sign.
Dog
(1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042)
The Dog traditionally represents loyalty, honesty and kindness. A dog plush toy connects this zodiac animal with a familiar and much-loved companion.
Pig
(1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031, 2043)
The Pig is traditionally associated with wealth, abundance and good fortune. A pig plush toy is a cheerful and personal gift idea linked to this zodiac sign.
Which zodiac animal belongs to your birth year? Follow the relevant link to discover matching plush toys. If you were born in January or February, remember to check the exact Lunar New Year date.