sporting dog

noun

1. one of any of several breeds of usually large dogs especially suited by size and training for hunting by pointing, flushing, and retrieving game and including the pointers, setters, retrievers, and spaniels.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sporting dog¹

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

His father, a former electrician and Air Force veteran who was once stationed in Germany, started breeding sporting dogs and then began working with law enforcement.

From Los Angeles Times

Working-dog providers are also increasingly opting to breed retrievers and other sporting dogs, Gregory said.

From Washington Post

Also making the cut was the Italian Lagotto Romagnolo, a medium-sized sporting dog with thick curly hair that is bred to sniff out the valuable truffle mushrooms.

From Reuters

Labs, originating in Canada and bred as sporting dogs, are known for energetic, child-friendly and outgoing personalities.

From Reuters

But terriers have won a record 46 times, and sporting dogs have taken the title 19 times.

From New York Times