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

BBC News NI meets some of the working dogs who will remain on duty over Christmas.

From BBC

The researchers say their "takeaway finding" is that, for working dogs, gradually easing into a timetable change might be beneficial.

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