Prospective dog owners take lots of factors into account before deciding on a dog breed. Important considerations include the size of the dog, the size of your home, whether or not you have kids and how much exercise the pooch will need. But besides all the practical stuff, sometimes it’s simply a case of going with your gut instinct. You might go to the rescue shelter planning to adopt a lapdog and end up falling in love with a Great Dane. Or swear that you’d “never” have a particular breed of dog, then end up being won over as soon as you meet one. Or you could consult your horoscope sign. We use astrology to find compatible romantic partners, so why not do the same for our canine companions? Here are the best dog breeds for all 12 horoscope signs, from determined Aries to empathetic Pisces.
An ambitious, independent, fiercely competitive Aries is best suited to a dog that loves to play, like a labrador retriever. This active, outgoing breed — the most popular in the U.S. — has a laid-back temperament, but needs plenty of exercise for physical fitness and mental stimulation. That means there are several opportunities for competitive races and games of fetch then.
Temperament:Friendly, Active, OutgoingHeight:22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)Weight:65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)Life expectancy:10-12 years
Another great canine companion for Aries is the Portuguese water dog. Easy to train and always eager to please, this breed has all the stamina required to keep up with a high-energy Ram. The Portuguese water dog is built for an aquatic lifestyle (bred to be an all-round fisherman’s aide), making it an ideal choice if your competitive side involves water.
Temperament: Affectionate, Adventurous, AthleticHeight:20-23 inches (male), 17-21 inches (female)Weight:42-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:11-13 years
As one of the most loyal signs of the zodiac, a Taurean needs a dog who’ll return their devotion. The affectionate, protective boxer is the perfect match — and its loyalty extends to the whole family. This is one pooch who won’t let you down in its role as the family guardian.
Temperament:Bright, Fun-Loving, ActiveHeight: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)Weight:65-80 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:10-12 years
Another dog breed known for its unwavering loyalty is the beagle. Bred to hunt in packs, beagles love company and are considered one of the best dog breeds for kids. That means it’s a good choice, then, for a lively family led by a Bull.
Temperament: Friendly, Curious, MerryHeight: 13 inches and under, 13-15 inchesWeight: under 20 pounds (13 inches and under), 20-30 pounds (13-15 inches)Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Curious and dynamic, a Gemini needs a dog that mirrors their emotional intelligence. The border collie checks all the boxes: affectionate, smart and energetic. This breed is also easy to train and will embrace any challenge thrown its way.
Temperament:Affectionate, Smart, EnergeticHeight:19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)Weight:30-55 poundsLife Expectancy:12-15 years
Another master herder, the German shepherd breed is a prime example of the confidence, intelligence and loyalty required by a Gemini owner. And just like a Gemini, the German shepherd has two different sides — while its affection and love knows no bounds for its family, it’s far more aloof with people it doesn’t know.
Temperament:Confident, Courageous, SmartHeight:24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)Weight:65-90 pounds (male), 50-70 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:7-10 years
Cancers demand the utmost devotion and commitment from their romantic partners and expect the same from their pets. The greyhound will never let them down. This gentle, noble breed returns all the love from its owner ... and then some.
Temperament: Gentle, Independent, NobleHeight:28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:10-13 years
The sweet-tempered, graceful Cavalier King Charles spaniel makes the perfect mate for a Cancer — it’s guaranteed to lavish all the love. It’s also a very adaptable breed, meaning it fits in with its owner's habits, from chilling on the sofa to more active pursuits.
Temperament:Affectionate, Gentle, GracefulHeight: 12-13 inchesWeight:13-18 poundsLife Expectancy:12-15 years
Leo is known for being one of the most courageous signs of the zodiac and needs a dog to be equally brave and bold. The massive, muscular mastiff will go to any lengths necessary to protect its family, but this powerful, giant-breed dog is also naturally docile and dignified.
Temperament:Courageous, Dignified, Good-NaturedHeight: 30 inches and up (male), 27.5 inches and up (female)Weight:160-230 pounds (male), 120-170 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:6-10 years
The “gentle giant” of dog breeds, the Saint Bernard may be physically imposing, but it has a sweet, playful nature and is incredibly patient and protective with children. Even the youngest members of the family are safe in its sizable paws.
Temperament: Playful, Charming, InquisitiveHeight:28-30 inches (males), 26-28 inches (female)Weight:140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
A hardworking Virgo needs a hardworking dog, and you won’t find a more dedicated breed than the Siberian husky. It was bred as a sled dog to pull loads over frozen ground, so it’s likely to make light of any work a Virgo owner asks. And because it’s a pack dog, it thrives on family life and won’t have a problem living with other dogs.
Temperament: Loyal, Outgoing, MischievousHeight:21-23.5 inches (male), 20-22 inches (female)Weight:45-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
The fast, fearless Doberman Pinscher makes a great mate for a diligent Virgo. Of all the breed’s tasks, the one it will take most seriously is that of protecting its family. No intruder could ever hope to match its incredible speed.
Temperament:Loyal, Fearless, AlertHeight:26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)Weight:75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:10-12 years
A gentle, charming pup is the perfect pairing for a peace-loving Libran. The Shih Tzu, or “Lion Dog,” was developed by Imperial breeders in the palace of the Chinese Emperor. That means it is sweet and affectionate — and guaranteed to treat its owner like royalty.
Temperament:Affectionate, Playful, OutgoingHeight: 9-10.5 inchesWeight: 9-16 poundsLife Expectancy:10-18 years
The thick-set bulldog might look like a bruiser, but it’s actually an extremely calm dog, known for its friendly, kind temperament. And don’t write the breed off as being too large to be a lapdog. After all, the bulldog will make every effort to curl up on its owner’s lap for some R&R together, regardless of what it weighs.
Temperament: Friendly, Courageous, CalmHeight: 14-15 inchesWeight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
The elegant dalmatian, with its unmistakable spotted coat, is active and outgoing enough to keep up with a competitive, driven Scorpio owner. In fact, matching a Dalmatian’s stamina is a challenge that even the most athletic of Scorpios will struggle with. Although the breed can be aloof with strangers, it’s always loyal and loving with its human families.
Temperament:Dignified, Smart, OutgoingHeight: 19-24 inchesWeight:45-70 poundsLife Expectancy:11-13 years
Another breed with great energy and stamina is the English Springer spaniel. It’s also intelligent, devoted and highly trainable, making it a top match for an exacting Scorpio owner.The Springer is happiest in company and good with kids, making it an excellent pet in a busy household.
Temperament:Friendly Playful, ObedientHeight:20 inches (male), 19 inches (female)Weight:50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)Life expectancy:12-14 years
The good-humored Sagittarian will hit it off best with a pup that provides plenty of laughs, which is guaranteed with the mischievous Lhasa Apso. This comical, thousand-year-old breed loves being the center of attention but manages to maintain enough mystery to keep everyone guessing — no matter how often it performs for the crowd.
Temperament:Confident, Smart, ComicalHeight: 10-11 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) Weight:12-18 poundsLife Expectancy:12-15 years
The Dachshund’s outgoing personality makes it a good match for the typically extroverted Sagittarian. It may not be built for distance sports, but it’s game for pretty much everything else. Life with a Dachshund often walks a fine line between adventure and recklessness, but there’s certainly never a dull moment.
Temperament: Friendly, Curious, SpunkyHeight:8-9 inches Weight:16-32 poundsLife Expectancy:12-16 years
Forget flighty mischief makers for the responsible Capricorn dog owner. Only a dependable pup will do. The Shiba Inu, an ancient Japanese breed, is the perfect choice: attentive, adaptable and good-natured.
Temperament: Alert, Active, AttentiveHeight:14.5-16.5 inches (male), 13.5-15.5 inches (female)Weight:23 pounds (male), 17 pounds (female)Life Expectancy: 13-16 years
Reliable to a fault, the Chinese shar pei is loyal, intelligent and calm, and adapts well to life with older children. It needs an assertive, experienced owner to train it without letting it get bored, but that shouldn’t be too difficult for a practical, committed Capricorn.
Temperament: Loyal, Independent, CalmHeight:18-20 inchesWeight:45-60 poundsLife Expectancy: 8-12 years
Don’t let the poodle’s fluffy exterior fool you. This is one smart dog. It’s also happy and relaxed, making it one of the best breeds to coax a shy Aquarius out of their shell.
Temperament:Active, Proud, Very SmartHeight:Under 10 inches (toy), 10-15 inches (miniature), over 15 inches (standard)Weight:10-15 pounds (miniature), 60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)Life expectancy:10-18 years
A truly devoted companion, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi loves to run outdoors. Provided it’s well-socialized, it’s also great with kids and other dog breeds. Its cute face and large ears make it stand out in the park, so it’s a great conversation starter for a quiet Aquarian owner.
Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, SmartHeight:10.5-12.5 inchesWeight:30-38 pounds (male), 25-34 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:12-15 years
A lively pup like the tiny Chihuahua will help keep a sensitive Piscean from taking life too seriously. What this breed lacks in size, it more than makes up for in personality. This miniature toy dog definitely has a “big breed” character.
Temperament: Charming, Graceful, SassyHeight:5-8 inchesWeight:Not exceeding 6 poundsLife Expectancy: 14-16 years
Another top pick for the compassionate Pisces dog owner is the Weimaraner. Friendly, elegant and dutiful, the so-called “Gray Ghost” from Germany thrives on lots of quality time with its owner. Just note: Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, it may become nervous and high-strung, just like its Pisces owner can.
Temperament:Friendly, Fearless, ObedientHeight:25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)Weight:70-90 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)Life Expectancy:10-13 years