He is angry and looks for a dog to kick.
look for a dog to kick
idiomTo seek someone or something to blame.
Origin
disputed originReferring to the tendency some people have to vent their frustrations on things which appear to be unable to defend themselves, such as dogs.
After his boss yelled at him, he went home and looked for a dog to kick by arguing with his roommate.
The politician, frustrated by his failing campaign, looked for a dog to kick among his staff to avoid taking responsibility for the defeat.
- 01
butcher's
[Cockney slang]look
- 02
buy a dog and bark oneself
To do something that one has hired someone else to do.
- 03
call off the dogs
To ease up on after inflicting great punishment.
- 04
cat and dog life
An unhappy married life marked by arguments and disagreements.
- 05
dirty look
An unpleasant or disdainful look or expression, often directed at someone.
- 06
dog and cat
A team comprising one male and one female, either working as associates or having one as the second-in-command to the other.
- 07
dog and pony show
Any presentation or display that is overly contrived or intricate, while lacking real substance.
- 08
dog around
To follow diligently.
Last updated April 17, 2026