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

“Last night, during a partnered U.S. and Syrian Democratic Forces helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four U.S. service members and one working dog wounded,” U.S.

From Washington Times

The working dogs, younger puppies and new litters played in the lashing winds that shifted thigh-high snowdrifts.

From Seattle Times

In Africa, working dogs are used as security around homes, to herd cattle and goats, and for hunting.

From Washington Times

In the United States, the first national monument dedicated to military working dog teams was unveiled in 2013 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas, home to the world’s largest training center for military dogs.

From Seattle Times

And Veterans Affairs had a policy requiring rest periods for working dogs.

From Washington Times