Trust not a horse's heel, nor a dog's tooth.
Meaning: Animals show their danger through their vulnerable parts—beware those who reveal capacity for harm.
Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.
More proverbs about Morality
- Truth hath a good face, but bad clothes. — Honesty may lack polish or appeal, yet its substance remains sound and worthy of respect.
- Truth may be blamed, but it can't be shamed. — Truth's integrity remains unblemished regardless of criticism or disapproval directed aga…
- An unhappy lad may make a good man. — Hardship in youth builds character and resilience necessary for adult virtue.
- Search others for their virtues, thyself for their faults. — Examine what others do well while ruthlessly cataloging your own shortcomings, reversing…
- He that makes a good war makes a good peace. — Strategic planning and decisive action in conflict create stable, sustainable resolutions.
- Tis pity fair weather should do any harm. — Prosperity and favorable conditions can breed carelessness, making people vulnerable to u…
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