When we use the phrase "dog's life," we often mean a life that is difficult or unpleasant. However, there are many other ways to express this sentiment using synonyms. One possible phrase is "hard slog," which implies a sense of continual effort or struggle. Another option is "grindstone existence," which suggests a life characterized by tedious or repetitive work. "Slog and grind" is another variant that captures the same idea. There are also idioms that convey a sense of hardship, such as "uphill struggle" or "bitter pill to swallow." Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the context and the speaker's intended tone.