noun
rescue dog; shelter dog
Refers to a dog that has been taken in by an animal shelter or rescue organization, often after being abandoned or stray. The term emphasizes the dog's status as being under protection.
保護犬を家族に迎えることにしました。
We decided to welcome a rescue dog into our family.
このシェルターには多くの保護犬がいます。
There are many shelter dogs at this shelter.
野良犬 is a stray dog living on the streets, whereas 保護犬 is a dog that has been rescued and is under the care of a shelter or organization.
Compound of 保護 (ほご, 'protection') and 犬 (けん, 'dog'). A relatively modern term reflecting the concept of animal rescue and sheltering.