Dog / Underdog
Also known as: underdog
The team or fighter expected to lose. Indicated by a plus number on the moneyline (+150, +200, etc.).
The underdog — often shortened to “dog” — is the team less likely to win according to the sportsbook’s pricing. They pay plus-money on the moneyline (e.g. +150 returns $150 on a $100 bet).
Variants:
- Slight dog — close matchup, +110 to +150
- Live dog — underdog believed to have a real chance to win
- Long dog / longshot — heavy underdog at +300 or longer
- Home dog — underdog playing at home; historically a small ATS edge in the NFL
Sharp bettors look for live dogs in mispriced matchups. Public bettors gravitate to favorites, which can leave value on the dog side.