working dog

American  

[wur-king dawg, dog] / ˈwɜr kɪŋ ˌdɔg, ˌdɒg /

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.

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working dog British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of working dog

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Researchers say the time shift is measurably unsettling for those working dogs, whose days are dictated by strict schedules.

From BBC

But he doesn’t want to discount the noses of working dogs before seeing additional genetic analysis.

From Science Magazine

Young saw the devastation to wildlife firsthand while doing research in Mongolia, where companion and working dogs often roam free.

From Los Angeles Times

A push in Congress to honor heroic military working dogs has refocused a spotlight on the vital role of K-9 warriors throughout U.S. history.

From Washington Times

Apart from toy breeds bred specifically as lap dogs, many breeds have backgrounds as working dogs: herding, guarding, hunting, and so on.

From National Geographic