   Puttin’ on the DogIn 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. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #Animals #OldTimers #Southern #FarmTalk Hillbilly Dude Says...  I never heard 'puttin’ on the dog' growin' up, so I think it's a little more regional. 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 and EtymologyLikely 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. Usage NotesStill 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 SouthernerSaid plain: "puttin’ on thuh dawg." The "g" is dropped, and "dog" often slides toward "dawg." | ...
About Created by The Hillbilly Dude, this site is a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia but reaching across the world. Every slang word, saying, accent and story is gathered from first-hand experience and trusted sources. The goal: preserve authentic voices and share them with writers, learners, and culture lovers everywhere - with a little humor thrown in here and there. Read more... |