sheep-dog

A sheep-dog herds the flock across the green meadow.

Definition

Noun: A "sheep-dog" is a breed of dog trained to herd and guard sheep. These dogs are known for their intelligence, agility, and ability to respond to commands, often used by shepherds to manage flocks of sheep on farms or in open fields.

Usage Examples

• (A trained dog that herds sheep.)
• (A dog that guides sheep efficiently.)
• (A dog of a breed traditionally used for herding sheep.)

Advanced Usage

• "to work like a sheep-dog": to tirelessly and efficiently organize or manage a group of people or things.
  • The project manager worked like a sheep-dog, keeping the team on schedule and in line. (To manage with constant, focused effort.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sheepdog (n): a variant spelling of "sheep-dog," often used interchangeably.
  • The border collie is a famous type of sheepdog. (A dog bred for herding sheep.)
• Shepherding (n): the act of guiding or guarding sheep, often done with the help of a sheep-dog.
  • Shepherding requires a loyal sheep-dog and a keen eye for the flock. (The practice of managing sheep.)

Synonyms

• Herding dog: a dog trained to herd livestock, including sheep.
• Stock dog: a dog used for working with livestock, especially on farms.

Related Idioms

• "A sheep-dog's job is never done": an idiom meaning that a shepherd's work (or the work of a vigilant person) is continuous and demanding.
  • As a security guard, he felt a sheep-dog's job is never done, always watching for threats. (The work of protection or guidance is unending.)