What is the female version of the word dog? - briefly
The female version of the word "dog" is "bitch."
What is the female version of the word dog? - in detail
The term "dog" in English refers to canines of both genders, with no specific distinction made between male and female animals in common usage. However, when it comes to identifying the gender of a dog, especially for breeding purposes or scientific classification, certain terms are employed.
For female dogs, the most commonly used term is "bitch." This term has been used historically and is still widely accepted within veterinary circles and among dog breeders. It's important to note that while "bitch" is a standard term in these contexts, it may carry different connotations in everyday language.
In some cases, particularly when referring to female dogs in a more general or polite setting, people might use the term "female dog." This phrasing avoids any potential negative associations and clearly communicates the gender of the animal.
Additionally, in specific breeding contexts, terms such as "dam" may be used to refer to the mother of a litter. This term is more formal and often seen in documents related to pedigree and genealogy.
In summary, while "dog" is a gender-neutral term, the female version can specifically be referred to as a "bitch," with alternative terms such as "female dog" or "dam" also being used depending on the context.