In breeding circles, a male canine is referred to as a dog, while a female is called a bitch (Middle English bicche, from Old English bicce, ultimately from Old Norse bikkja). A group of offspring is a litter. The father of a litter is called the sire, and the mother is called the dam. Offspring are, in general, called pups or puppies, from French poupée, until they are about a year old. The process of birth is whelping, from the Old English word hwelp.
What is the French word that "puppy" comes from?
poupée
Offspring are, in general, called pups or puppies, from French poupée, until they are about a year old.
Offspring are, in general, called pups or puppies, from French poupee, until they are about a year old.
What is the French word that "puppy" comes from?