Determining which dog breed is best suited to you is serious business, and we’re in the business of providing seriously useful information to help you make your decision. Exercise, grooming and training needs, potential health concerns and expected life span — there are so many factors to consider.
But, what if you could simply turn to astrology to find your perfect breed match? Of course, we’d never (really) suggest that, but it sure is interesting to imagine the possible pairings — and we’ve done just that. From Aries to Pisces, here are dog breeds with characteristics that align with each horoscope sign.
Once you’ve perused our pseudo-scientific, just-for-fun picks, we suggest taking our Breed Finder quiz as a more reliable way to find your perfect pet.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Are you an
energetic, quick-thinking Aries? Meet your astrological match in the
typically athletic, super-activeJack Russell Terrier. Head outside — where you’re usually both
happiest spending your days — and set off on a run together. But remember, a
JRT can be just as independent as you are. If she becomes bored, don’t be
surprised to find a freshly dug hole (or five) in your backyard.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Those born under this sign are strong and dependable, much
like the Saint Bernard,
a characteristically calm and patient member of the Working
Group. This gentle
giant is generally known to love her people, often making her a great fit for
families. But, realize this sweetie
can be stubborn, a character trait to which the bullish Taurus just may
be able to relate.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
What do you get when you combine a fun-loving, affectionate
personality with a healthy dash of mischief? The makings of your typical Gemini
and his astrologically-suited dog breed, the Beagle. As much of a chatterbox as you are, a
Beagle is often known for her distinctive, almost musical voice. Hope you’ve saved space at the center of attention because this generally people-pleasing pooch will probably want to
claim a spot right next to you.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Those born under
the sign of Cancer tend to be homebodies who value family above all else — for you, a Chihuahua may make the perfect cuddle partner. Despite her size, this “armpit piranha”
can pack quite a protective punch. In fact, she often makes a surprisingly
effective watchdog, ideal for Cancerians, who are typically wary of
strangers. Assuming you can tolerate each other’s moodiness, you and your
pint-sized pup will likely be fast friends for a good,
long time.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
A Leo and a Tibetan Mastiff could
easily share a mantra: My way or the highway. Like her astrological
counterpart, this typically highly intelligent, independent
dog breed can be considered strong-willed, making her a poor choice for
those new to dog ownership. But with firm, consistent training, this towering
breed can become the gentle watchdog she’s meant to be.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
A hardworking
Virgo will appreciate the history of Bernese Mountain Dogs,
a breed that spent years driving cattle to pasture, pulling milk carts to the
dairy and acting as watchdogs on the farm. Once she moves past the puppy stage, the Berner tends to be calm, patient and on the quiet
side — qualities that should hit close to home for a Virgo.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
A peace-loving, sometimes introverted Libra just might need
a Cavalier
King Charles Spaniel curled up on your
lap. Like you, members of this breed tend to be people-pleasers, happiest when in the company of others. Because Librans often
take so long making decisions, they may be considered lazy. But, don’t worry,
your little lovebug won’t judge: She’s among the 7
dog breeds least suited for labor, herself.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Much like a Scorpio, the French Bulldog looks
tough on the outside, but usually there’s a lot of sweetness hiding beneath the
surface. A person born under this sign knows what it means to be a true friend,
making a lap-loving
Frenchie a potentially perfect match. Do your human pals ever criticize you for being
too argumentative? French Bulldogs often hear the same, as they have a
reputation for being stubborn when it comes to training. So, when things get too
stressful for either of you, might we suggest taking a timeout, like these two?
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
High
energy? Check. Wicked
smart? Check. Slightly compulsive? Check. Sagittarians may find zodiac zen
in a Border Collie.
Considered by some to be the most intelligent breed, Borders will usually herd
anything: kids, ducklings, even a sack of potatoes you’ve spilled on the floor. It’s
good that Sagittarians enjoy being on the move, because Border Collies typically
require a great deal of physical activity. Bring your A game to the dog park, because this generally highly
athletic pooch can handle nearly anything you throw her way.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Capricorns looking for a four-legged friend who tends to be as intellectual,
disciplined and confident
as they are need to look no further than the good-at-nearly-everything-he-triesGerman Shepherd Dog.
Typically direct and fearless, these dogs can thrive with active owners who give them plenty
of exercise, training and attention. Assuming you’re up for the challenge of a
German Shepherd, do yourself a favor and take
plenty of photos.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Known for similar physical characteristics themselves,
Aquarians will appreciate the Greyhound’s
typically beautiful eyes, thin build and angular face. But the similarities go beyond the
surface, as this breed is known to be among the friendliest. Nicknamed the
40-mph couch potato, she’s the quickest
of all breeds, but her speed often comes in short bouts. After her run, she’ll likely turn into a cuddle
puddle for the remainder of the day. In fact, you two have a favorite
activity in common: No activity at all.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Let’s get the bad news out of the way, Pisces: A Shih Tzu probably won’t
be joining you for a swim, one of your favorite activities. But that aside,
you’re a near perfect astrological match. Pisceans have the propensity to get
down in the dumps, so lap up
the love of a generally gentle, affectionate and easygoing Shih Tzu. Couldn’t we all
use a
little of this sunshine in our lives?
