Crossword Genius

Assailant mauled releasing second dog (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

alsatian

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'dog' is the definition.
(I know that Alsatian is a type of dog)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for alsatian that I've seen before include "Breed of dog" , "Large dog and someone from Alsace" , "Old Frenchman" , "Strong dog known as German Shepherd" , "Dog (from French border region?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.
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