dog crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the classic "dog crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by length, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "dog crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CUR: A mongrel dog, often implying an aggressive or ill-tempered one.
PUP: A young dog; a puppy.
4 Letters
MUTT: A dog of mixed breed; a mongrel.
5 Letters
HOUND: A dog of a breed used for hunting, especially one that hunts by scent.
POOCH: A colloquial, often affectionate, term for a dog.
6 Letters
CANINE: Relating to or resembling a dog or dogs.
BEAGLE: A small to medium-sized breed of dog, known for its strong sense of smell.
7 Letters
TERRIER: A breed of dog, typically small, active, and used for hunting burrowing animals.
SPANIEL: A type of gun dog known for its long, drooping ears and silky coat.
9 Letters
RETRIEVER: A type of gun dog bred to retrieve shot game, such as a Labrador or Golden Retriever.
More About "dog crossword clue"
The "dog crossword clue" is a staple in puzzles, largely due to the animal's vast presence in human culture and language. From specific breeds to sounds they make, their characteristics, or even terms of endearment, dogs offer a wealth of linguistic variations for crossword constructors to play with. This versatility means that clues for "dog" can range from straightforward synonyms to more cryptic hints requiring a deeper understanding of canine-related vocabulary.
When you encounter a clue related to "dog," it's crucial to consider not just direct synonyms like 'mutt' or 'hound,' but also related concepts. Is the clue hinting at a sound (BARK, GROWL), a body part (PAW, TAIL), a type of shelter (KENNEL), or even a verb describing their action (FETCH, CHASE)? Pay attention to the clue's phrasing; words like "cur," "pooch," or "canine" each carry a slightly different nuance, which can guide you to the correct answer.
Sometimes, the clue might point to a specific dog breed, such as a 'beagle,' 'terrier,' or 'spaniel.' In such cases, knowing common breeds and their letter counts can be incredibly helpful. Always cross-reference with existing letters in the grid and the puzzle's theme, if any, to pinpoint the most accurate solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Slang: For animal clues like "dog," always think beyond the literal. Common synonyms (canine, hound) and slang terms (pooch, mutt) are frequent answers.
- Think About Specific Breeds: If the clue implies a type or characteristic, consider well-known breeds that fit the letter count (e.g., TERRIER, BEAGLE, PUG).
- Look for Related Concepts: Sometimes the answer isn't the animal itself, but something associated with it, like a sound (BARK), a home (KENNEL), or an action (FETCH).
- Analyze Wordplay: Crossword clues often use puns, double meanings, or cryptic elements. A "dog" clue might be hinting at something entirely different, like "frank" for a hot dog or "follow persistently" as a verb.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in to narrow down possibilities. This is especially helpful when multiple answers of the same length exist.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'dog' such a common crossword clue?
The word 'dog' is highly versatile in crosswords because it has many synonyms (pooch, hound, canine), breeds (terrier, beagle), and related concepts (bark, paw, leash) that provide a rich pool of potential answers for various letter counts. It’s a familiar animal with diverse characteristics.
How can I distinguish between 'dog' answers of similar lengths, like 'hound' and 'pooch'?
Context is key. Look at surrounding letters and the clue's specific nuance. 'Hound' often implies a hunting dog or a specific breed, while 'pooch' is a more informal, affectionate term for any dog. The puzzle's constructor might give hints about formality or function.
Are there any common trick answers for 'dog' clues?
Sometimes, 'dog' can refer to constellations (e.g., Canis Major), a type of hot dog (frankfurter), or even a verb meaning to follow persistently. Always consider the broader meaning and potential wordplay if direct synonyms don't fit.