I.
INTRODUCTION TO DOGS
1.1. Brief History of Domestication
The first domesticated animals may have been tamed twice.
By Ed Yong
Tens of thousands of years ago, early humans formed a unique partnership with gray wolves,
leading to the domestication of dogs. These animals played a pivotal role in human history,
influencing our relationship with the natural world. Archaeologist and geneticist Greger Larson
seeks to pinpoint the origins of dog domestication but faces ongoing debates among scientists.
While all dogs are descendants of wild wolves, the specifics of when, where, and how this
domestication occurred are still uncertain.
The range of hypotheses includes domestication occurring between 10,000 to 30,000 years
ago, in various regions like Europe, the Middle East, or East Asia. Some propose active human
involvement in taming wolves, while others suggest wolves may have domesticated themselves
by scavenging near human camps. Cross-breeding and gene mixing have complicated the
genetic analysis of dogs, making it difficult to determine their exact evolutionary history.
To resolve these questions, Larson and his collaborators are extracting DNA from ancient dog
and wolf fossils. These genetic sequences offer the best hope for answering long standing
inquiries. They have already made a surprising discovery that could shift the debate from when
and where dog domestication occurred to how many times it happened.
1.2. Roles in Human Society
Dogs have played a significant role in human history, being among the first domesticated
animals. They served as hunting allies and protectors in hunter-gatherer societies and later as
herders and guardians of livestock. Today, dogs are mainly valued for their companionship and
fulfill various roles, including guide dogs and therapy animals. Humans have bred dogs for
various functions, aided by advances in veterinary care and animal husbandry.
In ancient Egypt, dogs were revered, pampered, and associated with godlike qualities. Only
royalty could own purebred dogs, and favorite dogs were often buried with rulers for protection
in the afterlife.
Throughout history, dogs have been depicted in art and have been found in archaeological
relics, serving as testimony to the importance humans have placed on these animals over the
ages.
II.
Dog Classification
2.1. Dog classification by size
1. Bichon Frise
Avg. Size:
Height: 9 - 12 inches
Weight: 7 - 11 lbs.
Unique Fact: These elegant dogs have Einstein-like smarts and they
make excellent family dogs.
2. French Bulldog
Avg. Size:
Height: 12 inches
Weight: 16 - 25 lbs.
Unique Fact: Easy-care companion who is playful, alert, and affectionate.
3. Chow Chow
Avg. Size:
Height: 18 - 22 inches
Weight: 44 - 70 lbs.
Unique Fact: Chow Chows are very affectionate and devoted to family.
4. Mastiff
Avg. Size:
Height: 27 - 30 inches
Weight: 150 - 160 lbs.
Unique Fact: The Mastiff is a powerful yet gentle and loyal companion.
5. Great Dane
Avg. Size:
Height: 28 - 34 inches
Weight: 99 - 198 lbs.
Unique Fact: Great Danes have gentle and loving dispositions, making
them excellent family companions.
2.2. Crossbreed dogs
1. Pomsky (Pomeranian and Siberian Husky Mix)
- You love the regal appearance of a husky—but you prefer a smaller
pup. Pomsky has the best of both worlds! Thanks to the
Pomeranian, Lantry says a Pomsky is not only more petite but also
brings the character of a bonded companion dog who wants to stay
with their owner. This is unlike a husky, who tends to be a bit more
independent. Also, Lantry says to be mindful of your neighbors
since the Pomeranian and husky are both more "talkative" breeds.
2. Puggle (Pug and Beagle Mix)
- For pet parents who want a dog that happily greets everyone who
visits them, a puggle fits the bill. They are friendly not only to
humans but to fellow dogs, and they tend to be playful and cuddly
as well, says Jesus Aramendi, DVM, a senior veterinarian at
Chewy.
3. Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel and Poodle Mix)
- Sometimes referred to as the "teddy bear" dog, a cockapoo is just
about as cute as it gets. Furry, floofy, and generally well-natured,
Lantry calls this hybrid dog the most traditional and longest-known
mixed breed. In fact, she says some people have heard of them for
so long they don't even realize it's a mix! Cockapoos were first
researched and bred because many owners wanted a dog that
doesn't shed.
4. Schnoodle (Miniature Schnauzer and Miniature Poodle Mix)
- Schnoodles are intelligent dogs by nature, and their personality
makes them extremely loyal to their family members, says
Fernandez. They're also a breed that's easier to train and enjoy all
sorts of exercise—including a long visit to the dog park, a game of
fetch, or a casual stroll.
5. Goldador (Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever Mix)
- This mixed dog breed combines two very similar breeds to create a
Goldilocks-like pup. What do we mean? A golden retriever is fluffier,
while a Labrador retriever has a shorter coat, so the goldador is
somewhere in the middle. Lantry says this hybrid is a
mega-shedder, albeit not as much as pure goldens. She calls this
mixed dog about as friendly as you can get, and often goldadors
are most commonly found in breeding programs for use as service
and guide dogs.
III.
Doggie Delights
3.1. D.I.Y. Dog Treats
1. Quick & Easy Peanut Butter Treats
- Does your dog love peanut butter as much as mine does? If so you
can’t go wrong with this simple dog treat recipe — it’s a staple in my
house. You’ll need 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup peanut butter and 2
eggs. Mix the ingredients together until combined, and then add
water until it becomes wet enough to roll out as dough. This is my
go to recipe; my dog goes absolutely nuts for them.
2. Chicken Dog Treats
- Laika loves chicken, and these homemade dog treats make her go
insane — just a fair warning. You’ll need a cup of diced chicken,
half cup of cooked rice, 3 tablespoons of rice flour, tablespoon of
parsley, and one egg. If you don’t have chicken on hand you can
dice up your pups favorite meat for this simple recipe as a
substitute.
3. Sweet Potato Fries for Dogs
- We all need our veggies, and luckily sweet potato seems to be
quite popular with our canine friends. For this homemade dog treat
recipe you’ll need a sweet potato, coconut oil, cinnamon, and
turmeric. These are a great way for both you and your pup to get in
some of your daily vegetable servings – they’re delicious.
4. Cheesy Bone Treats
- These homemade dog treats will make your kitchen smell
awesome; good looking keeping your dog out of the kitchen while
making these. You’ll need four cups of flour, two cups of shredded
cheese, some oil, and water – just that simple.
5. Apple Cinnamon Dog Treats
- If you want to impress your dog try out this simple dog treat treat
recipe. It’s another one that smells awesome so expect some
excitement in the kitchen while you’re cooking these. You’ll need
one cup of dry quick cooked oatmeal, half cup of applesauce, and
one egg.
3.1. Dog Food Brands
1. Royal Canin
- Royal Canin offers some of the most diverse dog food options on
the market — the brand makes both dry and wet food for a variety
of dog sizes, breeds and dietary restrictions, including food
sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. I feed my 4-year-old
Havachon, Bella, Royal Canin’s small-breed kibble — formulated
for small dogs from 10 months old to 8 years that weigh 9 pounds
to 22 pounds — after it was recommended by my veterinarian.
Select’s manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara says she
also feeds her dog Loki, a 1-year-old cavalier King Charles spaniel,
the same formula after it was recommended by Loki’s breeder. I’ve
noticed that Bella prefers this brand over others, which she would
often leave half-eaten. Royal Canin also offers its dry food formula
for medium and large breeds, as well as a puppy formula.
2. The Farmer’s Dog
- There are several subscription home-delivery services for dog food,
which regularly send bags of fresh food directly to your door. Dr.
Judy Morgan, a veterinarian who specializes in integrative care,
recommended The Farmer’s Dog, which she calls “TV dinners for
dogs” due to their palatability. Select’s social editor Sadhana
Daruvuri feeds The Farmer’s Dog to her 1-year-old Maltipoo,
Bandit, and he loves it.
3. Hill’s Science Diet
- Hill’s Science Diet’s dog food for puppies is designed for dogs up to
1 year old and is packaged in a small, easy-to-digest kibble,
according to the brand. The formula contains natural DHA from fish
oil that works to support healthy brain and eye development, as
well as a vitamin E and vitamin C blend that helps support a healthy
immune system in puppies, Hill’s Science Diet says.
4. Purina
- Purina says it employs several veterinary nutritionists to help
determine healthy formulations and ingredients. The brand’s highly
rated Pro Plan dog food is geared toward dogs of different sizes
and in all stages of life, including large-breed adults and puppies,
according to Purina.
5. Just Food For Dogs
- Just Food For Dogs is designed to be high in protein and low
in calorie count, so it can be beneficial for dogs who may be
overweight or don’t get regular exercise, according to the
brand. It offers a variety of meal options that are made up of
locally sourced produce and only one source of protein for a
limited ingredients diet.
IV.
Famous Dogs in Pop Culture
2.1. Iconic Movie and TV Dogs
1. Beethoven in 'Beethoven'
- Named after the famous composer, this St. Bernard dog brings
together the Newton family with his loving nature. But when a vet
accuses Beethoven of being a vicious animal, the Newtons are
divided about euthanizing him. In the end, the family goes to great
lengths to rescue their beloved pet from harmful hands.
2. Benji in 'Benji'
-
Filmed in Texas, this 1974 movie features a golden mixed breed
dog named Benji who's simply looking for a home. He longs to be
part of the Chapman family and when their two young children are
kidnapped, the pup doesn't hesitate to step up. Benji helps the
humans solve the case, leading the children back to safety, and
earning a loving home in the process.
3. Bolt in 'Bolt'
- The adventures of Bolt, a White Shepherd dog, and his owner,
13-year-old Penny, are unlike any other. Bolt has been made to
believe he's a superhero dog conquering crime alongside Penny,
and when she's "kidnapped," he does the only thing he knows how
to do — save her.
4. Clifford in 'Clifford's Really Big Movie'
- Formally known as Clifford the Big Red Dog, this Labrador
Retriever is literally larger than life with a sweet personality.
Devoted fans of the TV show see their favorite dog in a new light
when Clifford decides to join a traveling animal show, but things
don't exactly pan out the way he thinks.
5. Einstein in 'Back To The Future'
- Everyone can agree that Marty McFly and Doc are the main stars
of this futuristic movie with a cult-following. But it's also fair to say
that both of them couldn't have altered the future for the better
without Einstein's endless support.
2.1. Famous Instagram Dogs
1. Jiffpom (10.2 million followers)
- Say hello to what might be the cutest pomeranian you’ll ever see on
Instagram. Jiffpom is the most followed dog on social media in 2021
with over 10 million followers on Instagram.
2. Doug the Pug (3.9 million followers)
- Doug has a huge heart and uses his fame for good. His owners
started a nonprofit organization, the Doug the Pug Foundation,
whose mission is to “bring joy and support to children battling
cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.”
3. Shinjiro Ono (2.5 million followers)
- This charming Shiba Inu from Japan is not just a professional
model that many runway stars could look up to — it’s also a
business mogul! Maru’s online store features clothing, accessories
and home items. Everything is perfectly on brand — and perfectly
adorable.
4. Bulldog Blogger (2.2 million followers)
- Russia’s most famous dog influencer, the Bulldog Blogger, loves
pop culture. Catch him at the costume store, trying to decide
between a Wookie get-up and a Wild West-inspired outfit.
5. Tuna (2.1 million followers)
- Tuna and his smile have gripped the hearts of over 2 million
followers on Instagram. This adorable little dude loves to dress up
for his followers, and is even open to filming cameos for fans
celebrating special occasions.
V.
Pawesome Doggy Tricks
5.1. Dogs showing off their skills
In Thailand's capital, Bangkok, a four-day dog skateboarding competition is a
common occurrence, where dogs display their skateboarding skills in a makeshift skate
park. This spectacle becomes even more normal when you see lizards wearing
headsets and rucksacks, squirrels in dresses, and dogs in pushchairs, adding to the
unique charm of the event.
5.2 Easy Tricks to Teach your Dog
1. Sit: Teach your dog to sit by using a treat and the command "sit." Repeat and
reward.
2. Stay: Train your dog to stay put with short sessions, a firm vocal cue, and
positive reinforcement.
3. Shake Paws: Start with the "sit" command, use a treat, and gradually transition
from sniffing to paw shaking.
4. Play Dead: Build on "lie down" and "stay," lure with a treat, and reward when
your dog lies on their side.
5. Roll Over: Once your dog knows "sit" and "lie down," use a treat to guide them
into rolling over and reward.
6. Speak: Teach your dog to bark on command and reward single barks.
7. Kiss: Encourage your dog to lick your face near a treat and use a verbal
command.
8. Spin: Use a treat to lure your dog in a circle while saying "spin."
9. Beg: Hold a treat above your dog's head, encouraging them to stand on their
hind legs.
10. Bow: Use a treat to guide your dog into a bowing position by moving your
hand between their legs.
11. Wave: After "shake paws," raise your hand to make your dog wave.
12. Back Up: Train your dog to move backward by using a verbal cue and body
language while walking towards them.
POSTS
1. The Benefits of Owning a Dog: More Than Just a Furry Friend
Dogs are known as man's best friend for a reason. Beyond their adorable faces and wagging
tails, dogs offer a myriad of benefits to their owners. They provide companionship, improve
mental health, and encourage physical activity. Research has shown that spending time with
dogs can reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood, and lower blood pressure. Their
unconditional love and affection can brighten even the gloomiest of days. Owning a dog also
promotes a more active lifestyle, as they require daily walks and playtime, which can help keep
their owners physically fit. So, when you bring a dog into your life, you're not just gaining a pet;
you're gaining a loyal and loving companion that can improve your overall well-being.
2. Choosing the Right Dog Breed: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Canine Companion
Selecting the right dog breed is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your life. With
hundreds of breeds to choose from, it's essential to consider your lifestyle and preferences.
For example, if you're an active individual who enjoys outdoor activities, an energetic breed
like the Labrador Retriever or Border Collie might be an excellent match. On the other hand, if
you live in a small apartment and prefer a more low-maintenance pet, a Chihuahua or French
Bulldog might be a better fit. It's important to research each breed's characteristics,
temperament, and care requirements to ensure a harmonious relationship between you and
your furry friend. When you find the perfect breed that aligns with your lifestyle, you'll be on the
path to a rewarding and fulfilling canine companionship.
3. Training Your Dog: Tips for a Well-Behaved Furry Family Member
A well-trained dog is a joy to have in your home, and it's essential for creating a harmonious
environment. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are key to successful dog
training. Whether you're teaching basic commands like sit and stay or addressing behavioral
issues, rewarding your dog with treats and praise for good behavior is an effective approach.
Additionally, regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential to prevent boredom and
unwanted behaviors. Remember that training is an ongoing process, and it's vital to maintain a
loving and structured relationship with your dog. With the right training techniques, your
four-legged family member can become a well-behaved and beloved part of your household.
4. The Science of a Dog's Nose: Exploring Canine Olfaction
Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, far superior to that of humans. With up to 300
million olfactory receptors (compared to our 5-6 million), dogs can detect scents at incredibly
low concentrations. This remarkable ability makes them invaluable in various fields, including
search and rescue, drug detection, and even medical diagnosis. Their noses are so sensitive
that they can identify health conditions like certain cancers and low blood sugar in people.
Understanding the science behind a dog's nose is not only fascinating but also highlights the
importance of respecting and nurturing this incredible aspect of their biology. So, the next time
your dog sniffs around on your daily walk, remember that they're experiencing a complex and
magical world of scents that's beyond our human comprehension.
5. Dog Breeds with Unique Histories: Exploring the Origins of Canine Companions
The diverse world of dog breeds encompasses fascinating histories that span centuries and
continents. From the loyal Akita Inu, deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history, to the
playful and elegant Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, with its origins in European royalty, each
breed has a rich heritage. Exploring the history of your dog's breed can deepen your
connection and appreciation for your furry companion. It's a reminder that these lovable pets
are more than just pets; they are living links to the past and reminders of the important roles
they've played in human societies throughout history. Learning about the unique histories of
various dog breeds can make your bond with your four-legged friend even more special.
Media:
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