Crossword Genius

A dog will stir if you prod it (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

goad

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'it' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'a dog will stir if you prod' is the wordplay.
'a dog' anagrams to 'GOAD'.
But, I am unsure how the anagram is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for goad that I've seen before include "that provides motivation" , "Spur, urge on" , "Provoke to action" , "Arouse" , "Spur or stimulate" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.