ముసలి కుక్కలు ఊరకే మొరగవు

musali kukkalu urake moragavu

Translation

Old dogs do not bark without a reason.

Meaning

This proverb is used to suggest that when an experienced or elderly person gives a warning or makes a statement, it is usually based on wisdom and valid reasons rather than being a baseless claim. It emphasizes respecting the intuition and foresight of the experienced.

Related Phrases

Like dogs barking at an elephant.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where small-minded or insignificant people criticize or mock someone far superior or powerful. It implies that the superior person (the elephant) is unaffected by the noisy, futile criticisms (the barking dogs) and continues on their path with dignity.

Even if a north-facing house is given for free, do not take it.

This is a traditional architectural superstition or Vastu-related saying. It suggests that a house with its main entrance facing north is considered highly inauspicious or unlucky in certain cultural contexts, to the point that it's not worth owning even as a gift. It is used to emphasize how undesirable something can be despite its apparent value.

Whichever leg slips there is danger to the child.

This expression refers to a situation where a child being carried is at risk regardless of which leg the carrier slips on. It is used to describe scenarios where a vulnerable party or a dependent will suffer the consequences regardless of which specific mistake is made by the person in charge or the authority figure.

A house dog does not let another house dog touch it.

This proverb describes professional jealousy or rivalry between people in the same field or household. It is used when two people who are similar in status or position refuse to cooperate or show hostility toward one another despite being on the same side.

Dancing feet and a singing mouth can never stay still.

This expression is used to describe a person's inherent nature or a deep-seated habit that they cannot give up. Just as a dancer's feet naturally move and a singer naturally hums, a person with a particular skill or a specific character trait (both positive or negative) will inevitably find a way to express it, regardless of the situation.

If foxes howl, dogs do not bark.

This proverb is used to describe situations where superior or more capable individuals do not stoop down to respond to the noise or provocations of inferior or malicious people. It highlights the difference in dignity and behavior between different classes of people.

There is no such thing as an old buffalo or an old Yenadi (tribesman).

This proverb is used to describe individuals who maintain their strength, productivity, or work capacity regardless of their age. It implies that certain beings remain robust and useful until the very end, suggesting that age is just a number for those with a strong constitution or work ethic.

Why does an old widow need suppressed, coy smiles?

This proverb is used to criticize someone who behaves inappropriately or flirtatiously at an age or in a situation where such behavior is considered undignified or unnecessary. It serves as a sarcastic remark about acting out of character for one's age or status.

No matter what costume you put on a dog, it will not stop barking.

This proverb suggests that a person's true nature or inherent character cannot be hidden or changed, no matter how much they try to mask it with external appearances or status. It is used to describe situations where someone eventually reveals their true (often negative) traits despite attempts to behave differently.

If you assume the disguise of a dog, you must bark. In for a penny, in for a pound.

This proverb suggests that if you take on a certain role or persona, you are bound to act according to the nature of that role. It is often used to describe situations where a person's behavior is dictated by their current circumstances or the identity they have adopted, implying that one must fully commit to the characteristics of the part they are playing.