The phrase "dog life" typically refers to a hard or unpleasant life, often with the connotation of being a lonely or undesirable existence. Some synonyms for this phrase might include "rough life," "tough existence," "hard times," "struggle," or "hardship." Other related terms might include "hard-knock life," "wretchedness," "misery," "adversity," or "privation." These words all suggest a level of difficulty or discomfort in life that can be compared to the challenges and struggles commonly associated with the life of a dog, such as living on the streets or being forced to fend for oneself without assistance from others.