Dogs and Man
Most authorities agree that dogs were among the first, if not the first, animals domesticated by man. Cave paintings depict dog-like creatures hunting with early man though experts are still skeptical about the actual time this domestication took place. Most indicate the fact that there are no fossil remains yet unearthed that suggest a date earlier than 10,000B.C. for the connection between man and dog. Whatever the actual date, we are in awe of our domesticated friends and sadly unaware of the changes their forefathers must have under gone to become a member of our "pack".
Early dogs had to learn to suppress many of their natural instincts- ex. hunting, in order to be accepted by humans. Additionally, the dog had to learn to protect its one time prey in order to live with man. What a change that must have been- for man and beast!
Today wild dogs still exist in many areas. Feral dogs are dogs that have chosen to return to the wild. Examples of these animals may be found in Australia and India. The dHole, in India, is widely known and respected as a wild and untamable animal while the dingo of Australia spends part of its time with humans and part with its wild counterparts. In Australia the dingo is known for its mating season vanishing act.
In ancient pottery, mythology and paintings dogs have found somewhat of a stronghold. Egyptians adored them and helped in the development of many breeds. Dogs were a big part of the lives of the Greeks and Remans as well. Remans and Greeks relied heavily on the services of watchdogs. Widespread in ancient China was the breeding of Toy animals which were kept in the wide sleeves of gowns to keep the host warm. Eventually nobility bred dogs for hunting, sport and pleasure.
Whatever the reason, we are continually in the debt of those first individuals who helped begin this love affair between dog and man- a friendship of continual loyalty, companionship and fun.
Article written and reprinted with permission of: http://www.pedigreedpups.com/
Purebred Dogs, Puppies and Dog
About the Author
http://www.pedigreedpups.com is a website offering the best purebred dog breed information, online resources and high-quality dog content for all dog owners, dog lovers and those considering dog ownership. Debbie is the owner of pedigreedpups.com, a dog lover, owner and dog breeder of many years.
Companion Animals and Their Unique Place in Society--Part 4
The Bible and The Chronicles of Narnia talk about companion animals What the Bible says about the role of animals in our lives In Genesis chapter 1, God made man in His own image, and then gave man dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the cattle, and all the earth and...
How to Choose and Wear The Right Jewelry
With the various trips to different jewelry stores hunting for that perfect piece of jewelry can be taxing. But it doesn’t have to be, if you know what you are looking for. Choosing which fine jewelry to wear is no different than choosing an outfit. The key is to trust your taste and stick to...
Vital Training For Your Dog Not To Chase Cars - Skip This And Your Dog May Be In Serious Trouble
One of the most serious, and unfortunately most common, problem behaviors among dogs is that of chasing cars. Dogs must be trained as early as possible that chasing cars is not acceptable. That is because dogs that chase cars eventually become dogs that catch cars, and car plus dog always...