As Canis lupus familiaris, descended from wolves and revered as “man’s
best friend” for their companionship and ability to perform various jobs for
humans, including working as guides, police, and therapy animals. Dogs
exhibit immense variation in size, shape, and coat due to selective
breeding, which also shaped their behavioral traits. They possess a
superior sense of smell and hearing, communicate through vocalizations
and body language, and have a lifespan of approximately 8-16 years, with
smaller breeds generally living longer.
Origins and Domestication
Dogs are the first species to be domesticated by humans, a process that
began over 14,000 years ago in the Late Pleistocene era.
They are a subspecies of the gray wolf and are related to other canids like
foxes and jackals.
Physical Characteristics
Variety:
Dogs display more phenotypic diversity than any other mammal, with
breeds ranging from tiny Chihuahuas to giant Great Danes.
Senses:
They have well-developed senses of smell and hearing, which are superior
to humans, though their visual acuity is inferior.
Anatomy:
They have powerful jaws, around 42 teeth, and their skeletons are
adapted for running.
Thermoregulation:
Dogs can’t sweat like humans; they cool themselves by panting, which
releases heat.
Behavior and Communication
Communication:
Dogs use barks, growls, whimpers, and body postures (like tail wags) to
communicate with each other and with humans.
Scent Marking:
They mark their territories by urinating on them, which also serves as a
way to identify individuals.
Socialization:
Dogs have uniquely adapted to human society and can understand and
communicate with people, forming a strong human-canine bond.
Roles in Human Society
Companionship: Dogs are popular as pets and family members worldwide.
Working Roles: They perform numerous tasks, such as:
Assisting people with disabilities
Detecting drugs and illnesses like cancer
Hunting and herding livestock
Serving as police and military dogs
Providing therapy in hospitals and nursing homes
