working dog

[ wur-king dawg, dog ]

noun

1. one of any of several breeds of usually large, powerful dogs originally developed to assist people in their daily work, as draft animals, guard dogs, and guide dogs, and including the boxer, bullmastiff, Doberman pinscher, Great Dane, St. Bernard, and Siberian husky.

working dog

noun

1. a dog of suitable breed or training kept for its practical use, such as herding sheep, rather than as a pet or for showing

Word History and Origins

Origin of working dog¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Contract dogs were not treated the same as military working dogs.

From Washington Post

When the Taliban released a video showing a military working dog held hostage the internet paid fast attention.

From The Daily Beast

He is slated to be retired at this end of this month, at which time he will go from working dog to pet.

From The Daily Beast

The progeny of the working dog are not any more trouble to rear than those of a rough-and-tumble Terrier.

From Project Gutenberg

It has materially benefited the condition of the working dog.

From Project Gutenberg