A complete Chinese Zodiac cycle takes 60 years and is made of five simple cycles of twelve years each. Twelve animals signs are assigned to each of the 12 years in combination with the five main elements of gold, wood, water, fire and earth.

The Dog, the eleventh zodiac animal in the cycle, is featured in this series of stamps. In this year of the Dog, controversial issues will be awarded a hearing and unconventional but effective changes will be introduced. It would be a year in which we would shed materialism and be more reflective. A perfect time to reassess our sense of values and crusade against tyranny and oppression.

In 2006, the Year of the Dog is ruled by the element of Fire. The buoyant and self assured Fire Dog has great magnetic charm and can convince others to follow his lead. Independent and courageous, he is never afraid to get involved with others and is open to new adventures and experiences.

Famous persons born in the Year of the Dog include Sir Winston Churchill, Elvis Presley, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Sophia Loren, Cher and Liza Minelli.

Stamp designer, Nicodemus Loh designed the playful illustration of this eleventh animal, the Dog, in the series of Zodiac stamps. The stamp designs are graphic illustrations of this loyal and honest animal.