small dog crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "small dog" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. This page provides all the possible answers organized by letter count, along with brief explanations to help you find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "small dog crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUG: A small dog known for its wrinkly, short-muzzled face and curled tail.
POM: Short for Pomeranian, a fluffy toy dog breed often clued as a 'small dog'.
6 Letters
BEAGLE: A small to medium-sized hound, known for its friendly nature and used in packs.
YORKIE: Short for Yorkshire Terrier, a popular small dog breed often appearing in crosswords.
7 Letters
TERRIER: A broad category, but many small breeds like Jack Russell or Cairn are included under 'small dog'.
SPANIEL: Often refers to smaller breeds like the Cocker Spaniel or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, fitting 'small dog'.
9 Letters
CHIHUAHUA: The smallest dog breed, recognized for its tiny size and large ears.
More About "small dog crossword clue"
The clue "small dog" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in puzzles from daily newspapers to more challenging cryptic varieties. Its broad nature means that setters have a wide array of breeds to choose from, which can sometimes make it a tricky clue to solve without additional letters. Common themes include toy breeds, companion dogs, or even smaller hunting dog varieties.
When encountering this clue, consider popular breeds that are undeniably small, such as Pugs, Pomeranians (often shortened to POM), Yorkshire Terriers (frequently YORKIE), or the tiny Chihuahua. However, some puzzles might stretch the definition to include breeds considered small-to-medium, or even categories like 'Terrier' which encompasses many smaller breeds. The key is always to cross-reference with known letters and the specific number of characters required.
Our comprehensive list aims to provide all the likely candidates, ensuring you have the best chance of completing your puzzle. Whether you're a novice or an experienced solver, understanding the common answers for versatile clues like "small dog" is a crucial step towards mastering crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the required number of letters for the answer. This is the most crucial piece of information when dealing with broad clues like "small dog."
- Check Intersecting Words: The letters you've already filled in from crossing clues are your best friends. They will quickly eliminate incorrect answers and point you towards the right one.
- Think of Common Abbreviations: For clues involving breeds or types, especially animals, consider if a common abbreviation (like POM or YORKIE) might be the intended answer, particularly for shorter word lengths.
- Consider Breed Categories: Sometimes the answer isn't a specific breed but a category, like TERRIER or SPANIEL, which contains many small dog types.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'small dog' in crosswords?
The clue 'small dog' is broad because many dog breeds fit this description. Crossword setters often use it to refer to a variety of breeds, making it challenging to narrow down without additional context like letter count or intersecting letters. Common answers include popular toy breeds or small working dogs.
How can I narrow down the answer for a 'small dog' clue?
To find the correct answer, always check the number of letters required for the solution. Additionally, look at any intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved. Familiarity with common small dog breeds that frequently appear in crosswords (like PUG, POM, YORKIE) can also be very helpful.
Are abbreviations for dog breeds common in crossword clues?
Yes, abbreviations or shortened names for dog breeds are quite common in crosswords, especially for 'small dog' clues. Examples include POM (for Pomeranian) or YORKIE (for Yorkshire Terrier). Always consider these possibilities when a short answer is required and other options don't fit.