perro
/ˈpero/masculine
In Spanish, the English word dog is translated 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 |
The term refers to the animal (noun). For example, you might ask ¿Tienes un perro? to ask "Do you have a dog?" Related to this, if you are talking about a leash, the word is la correa. If you wish to express the idea of pursuing with the intent to catch an animal, you can use the verb perseguir.
Which one should you use?
While perro is the general term for a dog, can is a more technical or formal term used in biological or veterinary contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
can is a formal or scientific term for a dog. The diminutive form perrito can be used to mean puppy or little dog.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In parts of Central America and the Caribbean, the colloquial term chucho is used for dog.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form is perro and the feminine form is perra.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpero/
Did you know?
- Calling someone a perro in many Spanish-speaking cultures is not about their loyalty but is often a slang term for someone who is unfaithful to their partner.
- The word tuso is a highly unusual term for a dog that originates from the old past participle of the verb 'tundir', meaning 'to shear'.
- The formal word can is a direct relative of the English word 'canine'.
Examples in context
- Vi a un perro.I saw a dog.This sentence shows how to use the word 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 park.
- MateoMira ese perro blanco.Look at that white dog.
- Lucía¡Qué lindo es el perro!The dog is so cute!
- MateoParece muy juguetón.He looks very playful.
- LucíaSí, es un perro muy feliz.Yes, he is a very happy dog.
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.
