Definition

1. Noun:
   • A domesticated mammal of the species Canis familiaris: A member of the genus Canis, descended from wolves, that has been bred by humans over thousands of years for various purposes such as companionship, guarding, herding, or hunting. It is characterized by loyalty, a keen sense of smell, and a wide variety of breeds.

Usage

• The term "domestic dog" is used to distinguish the common pet and working dog from its wild ancestors (e.g., wolves) and other wild canids (e.g., foxes, coyotes). It is a formal or biological term.
• In everyday conversation, the simple word "dog" is more common. "Domestic dog" is often used in scientific, legal, or specific descriptive contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The domestic dog is known for its remarkable diversity in size and shape.
  • Archaeological evidence suggests the domestic dog was the first animal to be tamed by humans.
  • The law requires all domestic dogs in the county to be vaccinated against rabies.

Advanced Usage

• "Canis familiaris": The scientific (Latin) name for the domestic dog, used in biological taxonomy.
  • The study focused on the behavioral genetics of Canis familiaris.
• In legal or regulatory documents, "domestic dog" is used for precision.
  • The ordinance defines a nuisance animal as any domestic dog found at large.

Variants and Related Words

• Dog (n): The common, everyday term for a domestic dog.
  • She has two dogs and a cat.
• Canine (n/adj): A broader term that includes domestic dogs, wolves, foxes, and other members of the dog family (Canidae).
  • The veterinary clinic specializes in canine health.
• Puppy (n): A young domestic dog.
  • Their dog just had a litter of six puppies.
• Hound (n): A type of domestic dog originally bred for hunting.
  • The bloodhound is a scent hound.

Synonyms

• Canine: (as a noun) A dog or related animal.
• Pooch: (informal) A dog.
• Man's best friend: (idiomatic) A dog.

Related Phrases

• Working dog: A domestic dog bred or trained to perform practical tasks (e.g., herding, detection, assistance).
  • The border collie is an excellent working dog for herding sheep.
• Domestic animal: The broader category to which the domestic dog belongs.
  • Common domestic animals include dogs, cats, and cattle.

Related Idioms

• Dog-tired: Extremely tired.
  • After the long hike, I was dog-tired.
• Every dog has its day: Everyone will have a moment of success or good fortune.
  • Don't give up; remember, every dog has its day.
• Let sleeping dogs lie: To avoid interfering in a situation that is currently calm to prevent trouble.
  • I decided not to bring up the old argument and just let sleeping dogs lie.

Noun

1. a member of the genus Canis (probably descended from the common wolf) that has been domesticated by man since prehistoric times; occurs in many breeds
   • the dog barked all night