We can officially confirm that Donald Trump and Adele should not be friends

Each Chinese New Year is symbolised by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac – and the Year of the Dog is fast approaching. It begins on 16 February and ends on 4 February 2019.

According to Chinese superstition, activities to avoid on the day include getting a haircut, sweeping floors and doing the laundry – a rock-solid excuse for continuing to ignore that pile of washing building up in the corner.

The origins of the Chinese zodiac lie in an ancient myth, in which the Emperor organises a great race to decide which animals would feature and in what order.  Amongst them, the Rat climbs aboard the Ox to claim first place, the Snake jumps out at the Horse to halt its progress, and the Pig trots in last after stopping for a bite along the way.

Don't get too excited if you're a canine yourself – it's widely believed that the year of your sign will be most unlucky. According to Chinese tradition, you can fend off this bad luck by donning red underwear and loading up on jade accessories. Donald Trump, Justin Bieber and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge should also take heed.

So what does your zodiac sign reveal about you?

Dog (1994, 1982, 1970...)

Honest and trustworthy, they are also a good judge of character. A desire to do what is just and right can make them pedantic and difficult to cooperate with.

Most compatible with Horse

Watch out for Dragon

Notable names Donald Trump, Justin Bieber, Kate Middleton, Prince William

Pig (1995, 1983, 1971...)

With a big heart and an intelligent mind, they can hold strong when the going gets tough. Their penchant for the finer things in life can make them snobby at times.

Most compatible with Rabbit

Watch out for Snake

Notable names Hillary Clinton, Elton John, Arnold Schwarzenegger

Rat (1996, 1984, 1972...)

Well known as perfectionists, they are also willing to spend generously on their loved ones. Watch out for a tendency to exploit situations for their own benefit and turn into a nuisance when things don’t go their way.

Most compatible with Dragon

Watch out for Horse

Notable names Shakespeare, Samuel L Jackson, Engelbert Humperdinck

Ox (1997, 1985, 1973...)

Dependable leaders who enjoy having a routine. Generally well liked, they also have a grumpy side and can struggle to forgive and forget.

Most compatible with Rooster

Watch out for Goats

Notable names Barack Obama, Margaret Thatcher, Walt Disney

Tiger (1998, 1986, 1974...)

Energetic and fearless, they often put action ahead of deliberation. Be wary of a reckless side that sees rules as created only to be broken and can easily tense up over trivial matters.

Most compatible with Horse

Watch out for Ox

Notable names Stevie Wonder, Marilyn Monroe, Queen Elizabeth II

Rabbit (1999, 1987, 1975...)

Sensitive characters who value peace and tranquility. Whilst they take problems in their stride, they are likely to make a hasty exit when the going gets tough.

Most compatible with Goat

Watch out for Rooster

Notable names Confucius, Albert Einstein, Enrique Iglesias

Dragon (1988, 1976, 1964...)

Enthusiastic and passionate, they are the embodiment of warm (yang) energy. While intelligent, they can fail to apply their wisdom carefully and choose instead to flirt with illusions of grandeur.

Most compatible with Monkey

Watch out for Dog

Notable names Adele, Salvador Dali, Nicolas Cage

Snake (1989, 1977, 1965...)

Enigmatic and bewitching, they are the embodiment of cool (yin) energy. Notoriously calculative, they are easily attracted to power, wealth or fame.

Most compatible with Rooster

Watch out for Tiger

Notable names Daniel Radcliffe, Oprah Winfrey, Shakira

Horse (1990, 1978, 1966...)

Charming and talented, they work hard and can't bear idleness. Always willing to be the centre of attention, they can come across as arrogant and hot-headed when riled.

Most compatible with Tiger

Watch out for Rat

Notable names Angela Merkel, Barbra Streisand, John Travolta

Goat (1991, 1979, 1967...)

Romantic and mild in manner, they are also generous and able to forgive and forget. This is balanced by a difficulty in making decisions and penchant for complaining.

Most compatible with Horse

Watch out for Dragon

Notable names Mick Jagger, Julia Roberts, Steve Jobs

Monkey (1992, 1980, 1968...)

Intelligent and witty, no problem is too hard to solve. This self-confidence can translate into a lack of trust in others.

Most compatible with Rat

Watch out for Tiger

Notable names Nelson Mandela, Michael Douglas, Christina Aguilera

Rooster (1993, 1981, 1969...)

Ambitious and talented, they like to think deeply about matters and always keep busy. This desire to get things done can also make them bossy and blunt.

Most compatible with Ox

Watch out for Rabbit

Notable names Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Roger Federer

For our guide to Chinese New Year in Beijing, hit 'Read more'.

What's open in Beijing during Chinese New Year

Valentine's Day dining in Beijing 2018