Dog-like

Possessing characteristics or behaviors that resemble those of a dog, particularly in terms of loyalty, affection, eagerness to please, playfulness, or certain physical attributes. This can apply to animals beyond canines, or even to human behaviors and personalities. The term suggests a certain degree of predictability, a lack of guile, and often an enthusiastic or subservient demeanor. It emphasizes traits associated with domesticated dogs rather than wild canids. The connotation can be positive, implying faithfulness and companionship, or sometimes negative, suggesting excessive submissiveness or a lack of independence.

Dog-like meaning with examples

• The golden retriever, with its wagging tail and constant need for cuddles, had a dog-like eagerness to greet everyone who entered the park. Its friendly nature, coupled with a desire to please, made it the perfect pet for children, and adults alike.
• Despite being a cat, Mittens displayed some dog-like behaviors, following her owner around the house and nudging their hand for attention, as she truly sought out human interaction. This unusual affection for a feline surprised the whole family.
• The new recruit's dog-like obedience to the sergeant's orders, while commendable in its dedication, caused some consternation amongst his peers, who felt he lacked independent thinking. His superiors, however, thought well of the new recruit.
• The artist captured the dog-like loyalty of the knight in his portrait, portraying a warrior devoted to the king with an unwavering, and somewhat naive, devotion. This quality would ultimately save the kingdom from destruction.