perro guardián
/ˌpero ɡwaɾˈdjan/
The English phrase "guard dog" is translated into Spanish as perro guardián.
This term refers to a dog used to protect a property or its owner. Depending on the context, you might also see the phrase perro de guardia used to describe a dog specifically tasked with guarding duties.
Meaning: dog used to protect a property or its owner (noun)
Which one should you use?
While perro guardián is a standard term, perro de guardia is a common alternative used to describe a dog performing guarding duties. In professional settings, such as security or law enforcement, the term canes de seguridad is used to refer to guard dogs.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, both the noun and the adjective must take the plural suffix -s, resulting in perros guardianes. If the dog is female, both the noun and the adjective change to their feminine forms, resulting in perra guardiana.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌpero ɡwaɾˈdjan/
Did you know?
- The word perro might have once been an insult. While it is the standard word for 'dog' today, it originally carried a pejorative connotation and was used to describe a 'cur'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, a dog that acts as a perro guardián is often distinguished from a perro faldero, which refers to a lap dog.
Examples in context
- Contamos con perros de guarda entrenados para garantizar la máxima seguridad en el recinto.We have trained guard dogs to ensure maximum security on the premises.
- Utilizamos el método de entrenamiento Schutzhund para nuestros perros de guarda.We use the Schutzhund training method for our guard dogs.
- El perro guardián ladra mucho por la noche.The guard dog barks a lot at night.
- Necesitamos un perro guardián para la granja.We need a guard dog for the farm.
- Ese perro guardián es muy valiente.That guard dog is very brave.
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are talking about home security.
- LucíaDaniel, ¿tienes un perro guardián?Daniel, do you have a guard dog?
- DanielNo, pero quiero comprar uno.No, but I want to buy one.
- LucíaUn perro guardián ayuda mucho con la seguridad.A guard dog helps a lot with security.
- DanielTienes razón, buscaré un cachorro pronto.You are right, I will look for a puppy soon.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry perro guardián, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries guardián, perro, CC BY-SA 4.0.
