guard dog

or guarddog

noun

1. a large, aggressive dog, as a German shepherd or Doberman pinscher, trained to guard persons or property and often to attack or restrain on command.

Word History and Origins

Origin of guard dog¹

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

The Times attempted to interview Kruse at his flagship site in West Point, where a sign warned of guard dogs and instructed visitors to call before entering.

From Los Angeles Times

I glanced at the heavy scimitar lying like a guard dog beside his leg.

From Literature

To find out, the researchers asked Montana farmers who were regularly visited by grizzly bears to host a guard dog.

From Science Magazine

"Today I felt less than human, like a guard dog not allowed into the house. Lonely and isolated."

From BBC

During the day, only the sounds of tractors or barking guard dogs puncture the deceiving serenity.

From BBC

Related Words

• attack dog