1 : a dog kept to guard property. 2 : one that guards against loss, waste, theft, or undesirable practices. watchdog. verb. watchdogged; watchdogging; watchdogs.

What does the term watchdog mean in politics?

Basically, watchdog journalism has to force people in power, for instance government officials, to take a responsibility of their actions that affect public's way of living.

Is watchdog a bad word?

In English it's actually positive, since dogs are considered "man's best friend" and a watchdog keeps you safe. Sometimes government agencies that try to find fraud are called "watchdog" agencies. In fact, if you say "you dog!" To your male friends, that's a compliment. It could mean he's clever, or good with women.