How Do You Say Dog in Spanish?

You probably already know how to pronounce dog in Spanish if you’re a dog person learning the language. However, you may have observed that the same word in Spanish often has multiple common synonyms.

Though perro is commonly used to refer to canines in Spanish, there are several different terms that serve the same function. This article provides 11 alternatives to the Spanish word perro for “dog.” While many of these definitions will apply across the board, some will be context- or breed-specific.

Furthermore, some terms may be commonplace in all Spanish-speaking countries while others may be regionally specific. Carefully consider your four-legged friend’s needs alongside those of your own by reading the descriptions and examples provided below.

Here are the Guide How Do You Say Dog in Spanish?

By the conclusion of this, you will be able to speak about dogs in Spanish with the fluency and enthusiasm of a native speaker.

1. Dog (Perro)

Perro is one of the most common and widely used ways to say ‘dog’ in Spanish. This term is widely used across all Spanish-speaking countries and can be used formally or informally depending on context.

In Spanish, the word “perro” is used for any kind of dog. You should be aware that the gender plays a significant role in Spanish. Therefore, the term perra should be used when discussing female canines.

A few real-world applications of the words “perro” and “perra” are provided below. There is a lot of leeway in the following basic format, so feel free to add or delete adjectives as you see fit when describing your dog.

Subject + Conjugated Verb + Object Determinant + perro/perra + (adjective)

1. ¿No te gustan los perros grandes?
   You don’t like big dogs?
2. Nuestros perros son muy tranquilos

Our dogs are very quiet

2. Cachorro Means Puppy

Dog is literally rendered as cachorro in Spanish. Therefore, this term is reserved for canine puppies alone. Its tiny form, cachorrito, is a cute and loving way to refer to your dog.

In the same way that “perro” can mean “dog,” “cachorro” can mean “little boy” or “young boy,” especially when referring to male puppies. However, ‘cachorra’ or ‘cachorrita’ should be used when referring to a female. Some instances are as follows:

1. Mira qué cachorros tan bonitos
   Look, what beautiful puppies
2. Mi papá nos regaló unos cachorritos
   My dad gave us some puppies

3. Firulais (Dog)

Firulais is a common and humorous slang term for ‘dog’ used in Mexico. Mexican speakers still use this dog as a cute and humorous way to refer to their own pets, even if the word is more usually used to refer to street or stray dogs.

Since Firulais was (and is) such a prevalent canine name, its use as a shorthand for “dog” in Mexican Spanish has become commonplace. Moreover, it can be used to address a dog whose name you do not know.

This word is a name, so a literal translation may not always be possible. It’s often rendered simply as “dog” in English.

1. Firulais, siéntate
   Firulais, sit
2. Corre, Firulais, ve por la pelota
   Run, Firulais, go for the ball

Just to Sum Everything Up

Learning the various ways to express “dog” in Spanish is a great way to increase your vocabulary and bond with other dog owners.