The story goes: An ancient emperor invited all the animals to a legendary race across the river. The first 12 animals to complete the race would have a permanent place in the calendar as a prize. Every animal represents one year of the 12-year cycle based on the Asian zodiac. The year the person is born determines their animal sign.
You’ve likely heard reference to someone born in the “Year of the Rabbit” or “Year of the Dog”. Each animal is known to have certain traits and characteristics that describe the person’s personality and destiny. Listed below are the traits of the 12 Little Wonders.
Our 12 Little Wonders key chains are small reminders of what animal we represent, and thus, what special personalities you and your family individually carry.
Born: 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Quick witted, clever and charming, it’s no wonder the mouse came in first place for the race. Mice are known to be sharp, funny, and are known to have a loyal group of friends. With ever-curious minds, they are also often motivated by greed and always open to challenges.
Born: 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
The ox is known to have come in second place because of its determination, and detail-oriented and hard working nature. Ox are kind, reliable and yet have the tendency to be stubborn at times. When feeling lonely, they enjoy companionship from family and friends.
Born: 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Ready to pounce at any time, the tiger is full of passion, ambition, courage and has strong leadership qualities. Tigers have authoritative traits that can naturally make them highly seductive and self-possessed, but they are also charming and warm-hearted.
Born: 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Popular, compassionate and sincere, rabbits love being surrounded by friends and family. Rabbits enjoy entertainment and companionship under comfortable surroundings. Their calm, peace-loving nature often makes them avoid risks and conflict.
Born: 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
One of the more powerful animal signs in the calendar, the Dragon is known to be highly energetic, fearless and warm-hearted. The dragons' charismatic qualities make them natural leaders and lovers, but they can often be self-centered.
Born: 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Known to have come sixth place by scaring the horse, the snake is intelligent, seductive, sociable and charming. At times, snakes enjoy risks and danger, but are known to be smart with money and at making immediate decisions.
Born: 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Highly energetic, independent and witty, those born in the year of the horse like to roam free. Their curious mind makes them passionate travelers and explorers, but are often seen as wanderers. The horse is also prone to easily fall in love.
Born: 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Their kind, peace-loving traits make the sheep natural nurturers. They are highly creative and enjoy being alone in thought, which often makes them anxious. As much as they like to offer, sheep in return need lots of love and support from family and friends.
Born: 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Those born in the year of the Monkey thrive on having fun. Their positive and cheerful energy make them very sociable and pleasant to be around. They enjoy being active and stimulated, and often find long term commitments challenging because of lack of determination.
Born: 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Reliable, honest and trustworthy, Roosters are good at listening and keeping promises. By being natural observers, they are knowledgeable and resourceful. They are also neat and organized, and can often come across as being perfectionists.
Born: 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
The dog is known to be loyal, faithful and honest, but at times found guilty of telling white lies. Its sensitive trait makes the dog warm-hearted and compassionate but also prone to mood swings. It is also known for dogs to excel in business and be consistent with their commitment.
Born: 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Last but not least, the pig is known to have come in last place because it chose to enjoy the scenery of the river and feast in the middle of the race. Pigs are well-mannered and thoughtful behaviors making them popular companions. They’re intelligent and seek knowledge, but can come across sometimes as being prideful.