Puttin’ on the Dog

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "puttin’ on the dog" (often written "putting on the dog") means showing off or dressing fancier than usual. It’s an old-timer’s phrase, still remembered for its colorful way of talking about pride and display.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

I never heard 'puttin’ on the dog' growin' up, so I think it's a little more regional.

Pronunciation

[PUHT-in on thuh DAWG]

Meaning & Usage

- Showing off or dressing up (verb phrase)

Mae:

Look at her in that new dress.

Earl:

Yep, she’s puttin’ on the dog today.

★ This one’s mostly an old-timer’s phrase - younger Southerners may not use it, but they’ll likely smile if they hear it. ★

Origin

Likely from 19th-century slang about wealthy folks keeping fancy dogs as a sign of status. Over time, "puttin’ on the dog" spread into Southern and Appalachian speech as a way of poking fun at anyone acting high-class.

Notes

Still recognized in Southern and Appalachian regions, especially among older generations. Outside the South, it’s mostly unknown or seen as quaint.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "puttin’ on thuh dawg." The "g" is dropped, and "dog" often slides toward "dawg."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "puttin’ on the dog" mean literally about dogs?

No - it’s about people showing off or acting fancy.

Is it still common?

Rarely. It’s remembered and sometimes used by old-timers, but less so by younger speakers.

Where do you hear it most?

In the South, Appalachia, Texas, and Oklahoma, especially in rural or older speech.

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