Plural of alan; a large hunting dog breed developed in medieval times, known for strength and agility, or referring to members of the Alani people.
From Old French 'alan,' possibly derived from the Alani people known for their fierce dogs and horsemanship, though the exact etymology is debated among etymologists.
The alan dog breed was so fearsome and famous in medieval Europe that they were depicted in art and literature for centuries—some think the name might come from the legendary fierce Alani warriors!
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