Ah, puppy love! A lot of us love dogs, and many of you probably even have a dog! In fact, approximately 40% of American families are estimated to have a dog. Were you aware, though, that the relationship between humans and dogs goes back thousands of years? People and dogs have been living together and helping one another throughout history. Keep reading to find out more!
Doggie History
- The origin of the domesticated dog is a bit controversial.
- They are thought to be descended from wolves, possibly the gray wolf, starting from 15,000 to 40,000 years ago.
- It's possible that dogs evolved from wolves that had developed a somewhat symbiotic relationship with humans (for example, these wolves may have followed humans and and warned them of other predators in return for leftover meat from the hunt).
- These wolves would have become less afraid of humans and could have passed that trait on to their offspring.
Dogs are thought to be descended from Gray WolvesCourtesy of National Geographic
Doggie Traits
- One of a dog's most remarkable abilities, and a trait that has certainly endeared humans to dogs in general, is their innate ability to read human body language and emotions.
- Dogs can understand a human pointing and nodding, and can read vocal tones to understand a person's moods and intentions.
- Studies have also shown that dogs can learn from 200-1000 words!
- Most dogs are also very trainable. They want to please you and can tell when you are excited, annoyed, or feeling sad.
Taking your dog for a walk is great exercise for the both of you!Courtesy of centralparkpetretreat.com
Doggie Breeds
- There are more than 200 breeds of dog, all of which have positive qualities.
- We can't go through every one here, though, so here are a few that are known to be especially loving and friendly towards people.
Some dogs are extra smoochie!Courtesy of The New York Post
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is well known for its loving nature! These dogs make wonderful pets and can be very helpful as therapy and assistance dogs.
Golden Retrievers are a favorite family dog!Courtesy of doglers.com
Bichon Frise
The Bichon is known as a calm, relaxed lap dog who loves cuddles and spending time with its human family. They are a fairly small breed, which is nice if you live in a city and don't have a massive living space.
A Bichon Frise makes a loving little pet!Courtesy of dogloversdogs.com
Great Dane
Make no mistake - this dog is HUGE! Don't be scared of its size, though. These dogs are some of the most loving and gentle animals around.
You might not expect it, but Great Danes are super gentle!Courtesy of dinoanimals.com
Now that you've learned a little bit about where dogs come from, all the special things about their relationships with humans, and a few breeds that are especially sweet, maybe you'll look at your dog or a friend's dog in a different way. Remember, give your dog lots of love and care and it will be sure to return it!
Have Your Say!
What's your favorite breed of dog? Comment below and let us know!
