guard dog

American  

Or guarddog

noun

1. a large, aggressive dog, as a German shepherd or Doberman pinscher, trained to guard persons or property and often to attack or restrain on command.

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Etymology

Origin of guard dog

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Pratt wonders if there are creative solutions, such as bolstering the sheep population by bringing in animals raised elsewhere or stationing guard dogs around the herds.

From Los Angeles Times

Fire Point staffers adopted some of the puppies, and two are now guard dogs in the weapons factory.

From The Wall Street Journal

“But you saw me. You are a very good guard dog.”

From Literature

Signs on guard walls and lampposts warn of security cameras, guard dogs and police patrols.

From The Wall Street Journal

The breed “is not the best choice for a guard dog since they are extremely friendly, even with strangers,” according to the United Kennel Club.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attack dog