A burr is a seed or dry fruit in which the seeds bear hooks or teeth which attach themselves to fur or clothing of passing animals or people.  If you have a dog that ventures outside in autumn, then you certainly know what a burr is.

Some dogs like shepherds have what’s known as “self-cleaning fur” that repels dirt and burrs.  Other dogs like wired-hair terriers are “burr magnets” that attract every little thing. 

Our dog Darby is a walking, barking burr magnet.  Every day in the fall we have to spend 5-10 minutes cleaning burrs out of her fur.