The Oldie, December Genius Crossword 394

[Mic1234]

Good morning,
The Oldie, December 2020 issue, completely stumped
“D is the key to solving this puzzle, and stands for the same word in every case”
Has anyone made any progress, and how would you decide on the word?
All help and advice appreciated

[Tilly2]

Could it be December?

[Echobongo]

I think the D stands for DOG for the following reason:-
9d is GOODNESS which is an anagram of 's nose' and GOD
21D is BASENJI which is a Japanese dog
18D is DANGEROUS which is an anagram of 'a nurse' and DOG
26A is IGUANODON which is an anagram of 'A Union' and DOG
I haven't completed any others as yet

[Echobongo]

12A is ENGORGED which is an anagram of Green and Dog

[Tilly2]

Not December then! :-)

[dannyk13]

I think you are right that D stands for dog.

[Gasmanjack]

Last one: 27a Daughter fronting tricky situation for D.
D?O??. Thanks in advance.

[Mamyalynne]

D hole

Dhole, a wild dog

[Gasmanjack]

Thank you Mamyalynne

[Mamyalynne]

You're welcome

[alanogden]

The answers so far are very helpful. I can add 3D DINGO a shortened Dior with N and G from the clue and it is a dog!