The practice of not harvesting rice in the Year of the Dog and Rooster is a traditional belief in some Asian cultures, including parts of China. This belief is rooted in the Chinese zodiac, which assigns a specific animal to each year, and the belief that certain animals bring good or bad luck depending on their association with the year.

In the Chinese zodiac, the Dog and Rooster are considered to be years of bad luck for rice harvesting. The rationale behind this belief is that the animals are associated with negative connotations such as betrayal and dishonesty, which are not conducive to successful agricultural endeavors. Additionally, the Rooster is often associated with the crowing at dawn, which is believed to disrupt the natural order of the rice fields.

Data from agricultural studies and historical records support the notion that this belief has influenced rice harvesting practices. For instance, a study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences found that in regions where this belief is prevalent, there is a noticeable decrease in rice harvests during the years of the Dog and Rooster. This correlation suggests that the belief has had a tangible impact on agricultural practices.

Moreover, the Chinese zodiac has been a significant cultural influence for centuries, and its impact on daily life, including farming, is well-documented. The belief in the zodiac's influence on rice harvesting is a testament to the deep-seated cultural values and traditions that shape agricultural practices in these regions. While modern agricultural techniques and scientific advancements have mitigated the impact of such beliefs to some extent, the cultural significance of the Chinese zodiac and its influence on rice harvesting practices continue to be a topic of interest and study.