working dog

noun

Synonyms of working dognext
: a dog suitable by size, breeding, or training for useful work (such as draft or herding) especially as distinguished from one suitable primarily for pet, show, or sporting use

Examples of working dog in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For a military stung by a damning 2026 IG investigation into treatment of military working dogs, this sort of investment is quite welcome, but a deeper glance at the contract tells another story. Craig Hooper, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026 As of September, just three active bear dogs were stationed in the state — down from seven in 2012 — with no plans to bring on any new working dogs, as of September. Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 17 June 2026 As each dog learns to herd and manage livestock, progress is measured through a series of real-world challenges that test skill, instinct, and partnership, culminating in a final working dog competition where one is crowned Wonder Dog champion. Peter White, Deadline, 7 May 2026 Wolves killed or injured 42 head of livestock and one working dog during the last biological year, according to the annual report. Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for working dog

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of working dog was in 1885

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Cite this Entry

“Working dog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/working%20dog. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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