**Core Concept**
*Taenia saginata* is a tapeworm that requires two hosts in its life cycle: a definitive host (human) and an intermediate host (where the larval stage develops). The intermediate host is a ruminant, specifically a cow, where the larval form (cysticercus) develops in the muscles.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In *Taenia saginata*, the cow acts as the intermediate host. Humans become infected by consuming undercooked beef containing the cysticercus larvae. In the cow, the larvae develop in the muscle tissue after ingestion of eggs from infected humans. The life cycle is completed when humans ingest the beef with the cysts. Cows are the primary natural intermediate host due to their physiology and feeding habits.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: Man is the definitive host, not intermediate. Humans harbor the adult worm and do not support larval development.
Option C: Dog is the intermediate host for *Taenia solium*, not *T. saginata*.
Option D: Pig is an intermediate host for *Taenia solium*, not *T. saginata*.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember: *T. saginata* → cow (ruminant), *T. solium* → pig (swine), and both require human consumption of infected meat. Never confuse the intermediate hosts — ruminants for *T. saginata*, pigs for *T. solium*.

✓ Correct Answer: B. Cow