see a man about a dog

Idioms  

1. Excuse oneself without giving the real reason for leaving, especially to go to the toilet or have an alcoholic drink. For example, Excuse me, I have to see a man about a dog. This euphemistic term dates from the Prohibition days of the 1920s, when buying liquor was illegal, and, after repeal, was transferred to other circumstances.

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Example Sentences

Have been sitting here wondering whether I dare 'go see a man about a dog'.

From The Guardian • Oct. 7, 2019

A huge generalisation I know, but anything that was hush hush, was a little suspicious or was offered as a reason for absence was "Oh, I had/have to see a man about a dog."

From BBC • May 16, 2013

"I've got to see a man about a dog myself."

From The Guardian • Aug. 26, 2012

Its claim to fame: the line "I've got to see a man about a dog."

From Time Magazine Archive

“That chili’s kicking in. I gotta see a man about a dog first.”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool