fit as a butcher's dog

English

Etymology

Based on the assumption that a butcher's dog is likely to be well fed because of the ready supply of its master's meat.

Pronunciation

• Audio (General Australian):

  (file)

Adjective

fit as a butcher's dog (not comparable)

1. (chiefly British) Very fit; in good shape.
   • 1991 July 4, Mike Selvey, The Guardian, "Cricket: England out to make it seventh time lucky":

     This time not only is Gooch as fit as a butcher's dog but England, through their efforts at Headingley and Lord's, are mentally attuned to the process of both winning and, crucially in the second match, not losing.

   • 2000 April 16, Nick Nairn, “Sunday Herald”, in Food for Thought:

     In my eyes, Nick Nairn is still in his early 20s, invincible and as fit as a butcher's dog.

   • 2010 July 12, “Runner launches Nottinghamshire's first ultra marathon”, in BBC News:

     "I had my midlife crisis at 31 but here I am at 48 and as fit as a butcher's dog," he said.