The Chinese animal zodiac is a repeating cycle of 12 years, with each year being represented by an animal and its reputed attributes. Traditionally these zodiac animals were used to date the years. The 12 Animals of the Chinese Zodiac In order, the 12 animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. RAT Years of the Rat: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1996, 2008, 2020 Personality: quick-witted, resourceful, versatile, ...