Early 19th century; earliest use found in ‘Jon Bee’ (fl. 1816–1830) (real name John Badcock). In some forms from the genitive of dog + nose; in some forms from dog + nose. The reason for the name is uncertain. Several 19th-cent. dictionaries of slang claim that it is because the mixture was as cold as a dog's nose. However, a great many alcoholic drinks are also cold, and compare quot. 1837 where the drink is said to be made from warm beer, and quot. 1889 on the drink's perceived warming qualities.