perro
/ˈpero/masculine
The English word 'dog' is translated into Spanish as perro. Wiktionary also lists can and tuso.
Meaning: animal (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| perro | /ˈpero/ | masculine |
| can | /ˈkan/ | formal, masculine |
| tuso | /ˈtuso/ | masculine |
Which one should you use?
While perro is the common word for dog, can is a more formal or technical term used in scientific or veterinary contexts. You may also encounter tuso or the colloquial chucho.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
can is a formal term, and chucho is a colloquial term. Additionally, perrito serves as an informal diminutive form meaning puppy or little dog.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form is perro, while the feminine form for a female dog is perra.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpero/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, calling someone a perro can be a slang way to describe a man who is a flirt or unfaithful.
- The word tuso likely comes from the Latin word tōnsus, which refers to being sheared or clipped.
- Unlike English, where 'bitch' is primarily a slur, the feminine perra is a standard biological term but can still be a strong insult when applied to people.
Examples in context
- Vi a un perro.I saw a dog.This sentence is useful for practicing the form perro.Tatoeba #1667390 by marcelostockle, translation #378503 by CK
- El perro es mío.The dog is mine.Tatoeba #508664 by Shishir, translation #493294 by CM
- Ese es mi perro.This is my dog.Tatoeba #1551463 by Shishir, translation #67056 by CK
- 1304 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and Lucía are walking in a neighborhood.
- MateoMira ese perro blanco.Look at that white dog.
- LucíaEs un perro muy bonito, Mateo.It is a very pretty dog, Mateo.
- Mateo¿Quieres acariciar al perro?Do you want to pet the dog?
- LucíaNo, tengo un poco de miedo.No, I am a little afraid.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “dog” translations and entries perro, can, tuso, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries can, perro, tuso, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
