dog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dog" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as referring to the animal itself or as a term in idiomatic expressions. Example: "My dog loves to play fetch in the park every afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He, determined to help wash dishes with an oblivious mama not acknowledging his signs for 'up!', found me and a lazy dog blocking his way.

The Guardian

Outside on the pavement, they had plentiful supplies of broccoli, potatoes and other vegetables and a supermarket trolley piled high with rucksacks, a couple of guitars and a dog named Zeus.

The Guardian

And an incredibly cheesy Budweiser advert uses the bond between a man and his dog to promote road safety.

The Guardian

We provide a service – dog walking – and are already at the max of what clients will pay.

The Guardian - Business

"But it's like a dog they know well – they don't think it will bite them".

The Guardian

It used to be an opportunist crime – a dog taken from outside a shop, for instance – but now "it's much more about organised crime, where particular places are targeted, [such as] kennels, where there can be multiple thefts, particularly for valuable dogs".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As demonstrators take to the streets for civil rights in Birmingham, Alabama, a police officer deliberately sets a dog on an unarmed man.

The Guardian - Arts

If you feed your dog cheap food - well try picking that up".

The Guardian - Business

There are poodle hoodies for £4.99, faux pink leather dog boots for £5.99 and a range of doggie polo shirts and pullovers.

The Guardian - Business

The sun radiates down on me and my dog Rosie, who is lying carefully so as to not to crush the tubing that connects me to an electronic concentrator, providing oxygen 24 hours a day, via a nasal canula, should I need it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

With eyes watering in the sharp wind, it was a relief to shelter under a high bank by the river, where dog violet, barren strawberry and thyme clung to the crumbly debris.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "dog" as a verb; it can mean to pursue relentlessly or to fasten securely.

Common error

Be cautious not to attribute human emotions or motivations excessively to "dogs". While it's natural to see them as companions, over-anthropomorphizing can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The noun "dog" primarily functions as a subject or object in a sentence, referring to a domesticated animal of the Canis lupus familiaris species. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a common term in everyday language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "dog" is a common and versatile term in the English language, primarily used as a noun to refer to a domesticated canine. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While "dog" is a simple word, understanding its varied usages and potential for anthropomorphism is key to effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

domesticated dog

Highlights the animal's role as a pet and companion.

canine

A more formal term for "dog", often used in scientific or veterinary contexts.

pooch

A more affectionate and informal term for "dog".

hound

Specifically refers to a type of dog bred for hunting, but can be used more broadly.

pup

Refers specifically to a young dog or puppy.

puppy

Specifically refers to a young dog.

mutt

An informal term for a dog of mixed breed.

working dog

Focuses on the dog's role in performing tasks such as herding or guarding.

four-legged friend

Emphasizes the companionship aspect of owning a dog.

man's best friend

A common idiom emphasizing the dog's loyalty and companionship.

FAQs

How can I use "dog" in a sentence?

You can use "dog" in many ways, such as "My "dog" loves to play fetch", "The police used a "dog" to sniff out the drugs", or "Troubles continue to "dog" him".

What are some other words for "dog"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "canine", "pooch", "hound", or "pup".

Is it correct to use "dog" as a verb?

Yes, "dog" can be used as a verb. It can mean to pursue relentlessly (e.g., "His past mistakes "dog" him") or to fasten securely (e.g., "Dog down the hatches").

What is the difference between a "dog" and a "canine"?

While often used interchangeably, "canine" is a broader, more scientific term referring to the family Canidae, which includes wolves, foxes and jackals. "Dog" typically refers to the domesticated species, Canis lupus familiaris.