APAD: As fit as a butcher's dog

Meaning: very fit and bouncing with energy

 

Background:

The allusion to a butcher's dog is to a dog that would be expected to be very

well fed from scraps.

 

"As fit as a butcher's dog" is a 20th century simile originating in the north of

England. Having been little used, especially outside of the UK, it came to

prominence following Prime Minister Boris Johnson claim in 2020 that he was "as

fit as a butcher's dog," following his recent weight loss and self-isolation due

to Covid 19 symptoms.

 

- www.phrases.org.uk [edited]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Regular exercise and a proper diet keep one healthy but fitness has many kinds. My

friend Bill used to run long distances and as his bodyweight dropped to the low

140s lbs, he said he felt like floating in the air.

 

Three years ago, he started BJJ. "I've gained at least 15 lbs and much core and

upper-body strength," he told me. These days, he swaggered around with a proud

chest and defined body. He's now as fit as a butcher's dog.