Dog
Puppy. Use this for a young dog.
A diminutive, meaning 'little dog' or used as a term of endearment for any dog.
A more formal or literary word for dog, similar to 'canine'. Not common in conversation.
Pet. Use this to talk about a pet in general, which could be a dog.
I have a dog and a cat.
My neighbor's dog barks a lot.
What a cute little dog! What's its name?
The puppy is playing in the garden.
'Perro' is the universal, standard word. 'Cachorro' is used for 'puppy'.
'Perro' is standard. 'Lomito' ('little loin') has become a very popular and cute internet slang term for dogs.
'Perro' is standard. In some areas, 'gozque' is a common word for a stray or mixed-breed dog.
'Perro' is most common. 'Picho' is also a widely used informal term for a dog.
'Perro' is standard, but 'quiltro' is the specific and extremely common word for a stray or mixed-breed dog.
In countries like Guatemala and El Salvador, 'chucho' is a very common, neutral word for dog, often used more frequently than 'perro'.
'Perro' is standard. 'Chucho' is also used, often referring to a mutt or small dog, and can sometimes be slightly pejorative.
Pronouncing 'perro' with a single 'r' sound ('peh-ro'). — This is the most common mistake. 'Pero' (with one 'r') means 'but'. 'Perro' (with 'rr') means 'dog'. The 'rr' sound is a strong, trilled 'r' made by tapping your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
Using the wrong gender: 'la perro'. — 'Perro' is a masculine noun. You must say 'el perro' (the dog) or 'un perro' (a dog). For a female dog, use 'la perra'.
Using 'cachorro' for all dogs. — 'Cachorro' specifically means 'puppy'. While people might understand you if you point to a small dog and call it a 'cachorro', the correct general term for any adult dog is 'perro'.
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