Dogs are one of the most popular pets around the world. According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, 70% of U.S. households own a pet with 63.4 million households owning a dog. With so many dogs as pets, it’s important for owners to understand the terminology used to describe male and female dogs. But what exactly is a male dog called?

What is the Proper Term for a Male Dog?

The most commonly used term for a male dog is simply “dog.” When referring to a male dog, most people will just say “dog” without any gender-specific terminology. This is the generic, gender-neutral term that is widely used and understood to mean a male dog.

Some examples:

• “I have two dogs – a male and a female.”
• “That’s a good dog!”
• “The neighbor’s dog was barking all night.”

Unless specifying gender, “dog” is perfectly acceptable for referring to a male canine.

Other Common Terms Include “He” and “Boy”

Other very common terms used for male dogs are “he” and “boy.”

Using “he” or “him” pronouns is a clear way to identify a dog as male without having to use a special term:

• “This is my dog Max. He’s two years old.”
• “Our dog loves when I scratch him behind the ears.”

“Boy” is an affectionate term many owners use for their male pups:

• “Good boy!”
• “Who’s a good boy?”
• “That’s my boy!”

So while “dog” is the standard generic term, “he” and “boy” are frequently used to specify or show endearment towards a male pooch.

Less Common But Acceptable Terms for a Male Dog

Stud

In breeding circles, an unneutered male dog intended for breeding is called a “stud.” This indicates his role is to mate with females to produce puppies.

However, “stud” may have negative connotations outside of professional breeding, as it reduces dogs to their reproductive capacities. Most regular pet owners do not commonly use this term.

Sire

Similar to “stud,” a “sire” is a male dog that has sired, or fathered, a litter of puppies. It is most often used by breeders and kennel clubs to record parentage.

Sire is a more formal and reputable term than stud when referring to a male dog’s breeding credentials. But again, this is niche terminology not in widespread use by average owners.

Informal and Slang Terms for a Male Dog

Doggo

“Doggo” is a fun slang term for a dog that has grown in popularity thanks to the DoggoLingo meme. Young people especially may affectionately refer to their male dog as a “doggo.”

Pooch

“Pooch” is an informal, cutesy word for a dog of either gender. It’s used as a synonym for dog, often to show fondness.

Mutt

While sometimes viewed as derogatory, “mutt” is used to describe a mixed-breed dog. It may be used neutrally or even endearingly by some owners.

Canine

“Canine” is the technical term that refers to any dog, wolf, coyote, jackal, etc. It sounds very clinical and scientific, so everyday owners rarely use it.

Cur

“Cur” is an old-fashioned term for a mutt or mongrel dog. It may have negative connotations implying a stray mixed-breed. This term is dated and not in common usage.

Hound

While technically referring to dogs bred for hunting, “hound” is sometimes used informally to mean any breed of dog.

When to Use Gender-Specific Terminology

Most of the time, simply saying “dog” is perfectly fine and normal for referring to a male dog. But there are certain contexts where using gender-specific terminology makes sense:

• Talking about breeding/pedigrees: Terms like “sire,” “stud,” and “male” are useful here.
• Training cues: Commands like “Good boy!” reinforce behaviors.
• Avoiding confusion: With multiple dogs, using “he”/”him” clarifies which dog is being discussed.
• Emphasizing gender for any reason: Some owners like emphasizing their dog’s gender when introducing them or showing affection.

So while just using “dog” is standard, it’s also fine to use male-specific terms when helpful or appropriate. The choice often just comes down to personal preference.

Is There a Formal Name for a Male Dog?

There is no truly definitive “formal” term for a male dog equivalent to mare/stallion or cow/bull. But there are some technical male dog names to know:

Male

Using “male” as an adjective is the most formal way to identify a male dog’s gender:

• The male dog won Best in Show.
• We have 3 female dogs and 2 males.

“Male” communicates the dog’s sex in a clinical, scientific way.

Dog

As discussed earlier, “dog” on its own can still be considered a standard formal term when used generally or as a noun.

For example, these sentences use “dog” in a formal way:

• The oldest dog was a male.
• This breed of dog is known for its loyalty.
• The dog was bred from champion stock.

So while plain old “dog” may seem too casual at first glance, it’s completely appropriate for formal contexts.

Sire

As mentioned previously, “sire” is formal terminology used by breeders and kennel clubs to denote a stud male dog with offspring. It indicates his status as a parent.

Canine

The technical word “canine” is very formal and scientific-sounding. Specific types of canines (dogs) may be referred to formally by breed name.

In summary, the most formal options for referring to a male dog are “male,” “dog,” “sire,” “canine,” and specific breed names. But there is no single definitive formal term that is required.

Common Questions About Male Dog Terminology

Is it okay to use informal words like “doggo”?

Absolutely! While formal terms have their place, there’s nothing wrong with using cute or fun words with your own pets. Doggo, pupper, good boy – these are all fine when talking to your dog at home.

What if I don’t know my dog’s gender?

If you have adopted a dog or are uncertain of its sex, defaulting to gender-neutral terms like “dog,” “pup,” or “good dog” is perfectly alright until you can confirm the gender.

Do terms like “stud” and “sire” demean dogs?

Because those breeding terms reduce male dogs to their reproductive ability, some argue they are derogatory. Others maintain they simply reflect a dog’s working purpose. Opinions vary on the implications of these words.

Is “bitch” an offensive word?

Many people consider “bitch” derogatory when used meaning a female dog in heat. Others still use the term neutrally to describe breeding females. Some recommend avoiding “bitch” due to potentially negative or sexual connotations.

Can male dogs be called “pets”?

Certainly! “Pet” is a gender-neutral word for any companion animal in the home, so it can absolutely be used to refer to both male and female dogs.

Conclusion

In most everyday situations, simply saying “dog” is the standard way to refer to a male dog. Additional terms like “he,” “boy,” and various slang or endearing words are also commonly used. While there is no one formal term equivalent to “stallion” or “bull,” appropriate formal options include “male,” “dog,” “sire,” “canine,” and breed names.

The vast range of informal and formal names for male dogs gives owners flexibility. Specific circumstances and personal preferences will determine what terminology feels right. As man’s best friend, our male dogs love us no matter what we call them!

Frequently Asked Questions about Male Dog Terminology

Here are some frequently asked questions given below:

What is the most common term for a male dog?

The most universally used and understood term is simply “dog.” When the gender is unknown or irrelevant, “dog” is the standard catch-all word referring to a male canine.

What are some affectionate names people call their male dogs?

Popular affectionate names include “boy,” “buddy,” good boy,” “pupper,” “doggo,” “my man,” etc. Owners often develop silly nicknames for their beloved pets as terms of endearment.

Is it okay to use cutesy slang like “doggo” and “pupper”?

Yes, playful slang is perfectly acceptable in casual settings and can help convey fondness for your pet. You should avoid overly childish or condescending names in formal situations. But a touch of silliness and fun is great for talking to and about your own much-loved doggo!

What are some gender-neutral terms for referring to a dog?

If you don’t know, want to conceal, or are indifferent to a dog’s sex, opt for gender-neutral words like:

• Dog
• Canine
• Pooch
• Pup
• Pet
• Companion
• Friend

These words apply equally well to both male and female dogs, avoiding any gender bias.

Should you use “it” when referring to a dog?

Referring to a dog as “it” is grammatically correct but may sound impersonal. Using “he” or “she” helps convey the dog’s status as a loved family member vs. an inanimate object. But either approach is technically fine.