canine (redirected from canid)

canine

 or canid

Any domestic or wild dog or doglike mammal (e.g., wolf, jackal, fox) in the family Canidae, found throughout the world except in Antarctica and on most ocean islands. Canines tend to be slender and long-legged, with a long muzzle, bushy tail, erect pointed ears, and well-developed canine and cheek teeth. They prey on all types of animals; some also eat carrion and vegetable matter. They probably were the first animals to be domesticated. Though helpful in controlling rodent and rabbit populations, canines have been hunted for their pelts and slaughtered to prevent their reputed (and sometimes real) destruction of livestock and large game.

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canine

1. of, relating to, or belonging to the Canidae, a family of mammals, including dogs, jackals, wolves, and foxes, typically having a bushy tail, erect ears, and a long muzzle: order Carnivora (carnivores)

2. of or relating to any of the four teeth, two in each jaw, situated between the incisors and the premolars

3. a canine tooth

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canine [′kā‚nīn]

(anatomy)

A conical tooth, such as one located between the lateral incisor and first premolar in humans and many other mammals. Also known as cuspid.

(vertebrate zoology)

Pertaining or related to dogs or to the family Canidae.