- English translation
Like a dog, he only gets bold and lively in his own spot.
- Literal wording
Like the dog, he does not show his cleverness except in his own hole.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying belittles a person of low standing whose energy, skill and daring show up only in his own place. He is likened to a dog that puts on a brave front solely at its hole, a demeaning comparison that strikes at his worth as well as his courage.
The reason behind this limited courage is protection. In his own place he has others nearby who will defend him, and that backing is what lets him act eager and bold. His boldness therefore rests on the people around him rather than on genuine strength or merit.
- When it is used
Said disparagingly of a lowly person who acts bold, eager or capable only where he enjoys protection, such as his home ground or among his own defenders, to point out that his daring depends on that shelter.
- Register
- colloquial
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Like a dog, he only gets bold and lively in his own spot.