What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dogs
Example
I love playing fetch with my dog in the park. [dog: noun]
Example
She trained her dog to do various tricks, including rolling over and shaking hands. [dog: noun]
canine
Example
The canine family includes wolves, foxes, and domesticated dogs. [canine: noun]
Example
Canine teeth are sharp and pointed, used for tearing meat. [canine: adjective]
Example
The veterinarian diagnosed the dog with a canine respiratory infection. [canine: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dogs is much more common than canine in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts. Canine is more commonly used in scientific or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dogs and canine?
Canine is generally considered more formal than dogs, as it is more commonly used in scientific or medical contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.
