番犬 (ばんけん) Japanese meaning | KotomoraThe watchdog barked, so I knew someone was approaching.
Usage patterns
〈場所〉に番犬を飼うto keep a watchdog at a place
We keep a watchdog in our yard.
番犬が吠えるfor a watchdog to bark (at an intruder)
The watchdog barked fiercely when a stranger approached.
〈物〉の番犬としてacting as the guard/watchdog of something (also figuratively)
He works as a watchdog protecting the company's secrets.