Crossword Genius

It's difficult for a motherless dog! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stiff

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

This could be a double definition.

'it's difficult' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)

'motherless dog' is the second definition.
'stiff' can be an answer for 'dog' (thesaurus). I'm not sure about the 'motherless' bit.

'for a' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stiff that I've seen before include "tough" , "Frigid" , "Rigid, prim" , "Inflexible" , "Formal" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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