small dog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small dog" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a dog that is of a smaller size, often in contexts related to pet ownership, animal descriptions, or comparisons. Example: "My neighbor has a small dog that loves to bark at passing cars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It wasn't a small dog.

The New Yorker

■ Emulate French women and always carry a small dog.

The Guardian - Opinion

Extras (not essential): a small dog and some wooden clogs.

The Guardian

Bruiser is Elle's very small dog, which she totes everywhere.

The New York Times

On the second, I'll vanish a small dog.

The Guardian

We a small dog getting its toenails cut.

The Guardian - Film

"A kestrel is like a small dog that can fly".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This small dog has fighting spirit for sure".

The Guardian - Sport

SLUMBER PARTY She thinks she's a small dog, like she weighs five pounds.

The New York Times

Accompanying the leggy blonde was a small dog – confusingly, not her own.

Independent

While there is a small dog run — requested by community members — there is no playground.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a dog's size, consider the breed standard. Using "small dog" is appropriate when referring to breeds naturally small or when contrasting with larger breeds.

Common error

Avoid using "small dog" as a default descriptor for all dogs that aren't visibly large. Some breeds are medium-sized, and accuracy enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small dog" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "small" modifies the noun "dog". This combination serves to describe a specific type of dog based on its size, providing a clear and concise description. As evidenced by Ludwig, this phrase is widely understood and used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

32%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "small dog" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a dog of diminutive size. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, from news articles and encyclopedic entries to scientific research and casual conversation. When using "small dog", remember to consider the specific breed and avoid overgeneralization. Alternative phrases such as "tiny dog" or "little dog" can offer nuanced ways to convey size. While generally neutral, the formality of "small dog" depends on the surrounding context. Keep in mind it is relevant to avoid overgeneralizing size. For accurate and effective communication, it's essential to ensure that the description aligns with the breed and the specific nuances you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tiny dog

Focuses on extreme diminutiveness.

little dog

A more general term for a dog of reduced size.

miniature dog

Highlights a breed specifically bred for small size.

pocket-sized dog

Emphasizes portability and extremely small dimensions.

petite dog

Lends a delicate or refined quality to the description.

toy dog

Refers to breeds known for being small and kept as companions.

dwarf dog

Highlights a genetic condition that causes stunted growth.

undersized dog

Indicates that the dog is smaller than the breed standard.

compact dog

Emphasizes the dog's short, sturdy build.

lapdog

A dog small enough to sit comfortably in a person's lap.

FAQs

How can I use "small dog" in a sentence?

You can use "small dog" to describe the size of a canine, for example, "She adopted a "small dog" from the shelter." or "He prefers a "small dog" because they're easier to care for in an apartment."

What are some synonyms for "small dog"?

Alternatives include "tiny dog", "little dog", or "miniature dog", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "small dog" when describing a dog's size?

No, it's important to consider the specific breed and context. While a Chihuahua is a "small dog", a Beagle might be considered medium-sized, even though it's smaller than a Labrador.

What are some common characteristics associated with "small dog" breeds?

While individual personalities vary, some common traits include being more prone to barking, having higher energy levels, and requiring specialized training to avoid "small dog syndrome".