Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large breed of dog: "Coach dog" refers to a specific breed of large-sized dog.
   • Distinctive coat: It is characterized by a smooth, short-haired white coat marked with distinct black or brown spots.
   • Historical origin: The breed is historically said to have originated in the Dalmatia region, which is part of modern-day Croatia.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The elegant coach dog trotted alongside the carriage.
  • We are thinking of adopting a coach dog from the shelter.
  • Historically, coach dogs were used to run alongside horse-drawn coaches.

Advanced Usage

• "To be as spotted as a coach dog": An informal simile describing something with many spots.
  • After the paint fight, his shirt was as spotted as a coach dog.

Variants and Related Words

• Dalmatian: This is the more common modern name for the same breed of dog.
  • The firehouse mascot is a Dalmatian.

Synonyms

• Dalmatian: The standard synonym for "coach dog."
• Carriage dog: A less common, historical synonym referencing the same function.

Related Idioms

• "A coach dog's loyalty": Referring to great steadfastness, derived from the breed's historical role as a companion and guardian to coaches and horses.
  • He showed a coach dog's loyalty to the company, staying for over thirty years.

Noun

1. a large breed having a smooth white coat with black or brown spots; originated in Dalmatia