Explore the fascinating journey of how ancient hunter gatherers domesticated dogs during the Ice Age. Learn about the challenges of studying dog domestication, the interaction between humans and wolves, and the significance of dogs as hunting companions. Discover the origins of horse domestication and the shifting importance of dogs. Dr. Angela Perri discusses the profound impact of dogs on human lives and their role in human migration.
Dog domestication dates back at least 23,000 years ago, occurring in Siberia and then spreading to other parts of Eurasia and the Americas.
Early dogs played crucial roles in hunting and surviving in different environments, serving as important companions and tools for humans.
Deep dives
The Origins of Dog Domestication
Dog domestication dates back to at least 23,000 years ago, making them the earliest domesticated animals known. Genetic evidence suggests that dogs had a common ancestor around this time, although physical remains are not available. The study of ancient DNA and archaeological evidence has shed light on the domestication process. Dogs played various roles in early societies, including scavenging and hunting. The domestication of dogs likely occurred in Siberia and then spread to other parts of Eurasia and the Americas. Dogs became important companions, tools for hunting, and sled dogs in Arctic regions.
The Importance of Working Dogs
Early dogs played crucial roles in hunting and surviving in different environments. They were used for hunting deer and boar, particularly in dense forests. Sledding dogs were especially valuable in Arctic conditions, allowing easier mobility in vast areas. Dogs' versatility as working animals made them important companions and tools for humans. As populations of early humans migrated and spread, dogs accompanied them, interbreeding with local wolf populations. Dogs also had an impact on the American ecosystem, both through interbreeding and potentially contributing to the decline of certain prey species.
Evidence of Early Dog Domestication
Archaeological sites such as Costa in Central Illinois provide evidence of early dog domestication. Burials of dogs at Costa dating back around 10,000 years reveal the special relationship between humans and dogs. Other evidence includes injuries that healed with human assistance, pointing to their care for injured dogs. Genetic analysis from various sites suggests interbreeding between dogs, wolves, and coyotes. Dogs likely arrived in the Americas alongside humans, potentially crossing the Bering Strait around 15,000 to 20,000 years ago. The presence of dogs in North America changed the ecosystem and affected the survival of other predator species.
The Enduring Bond Between Humans and Dogs
The bond between humans and dogs has persisted throughout history. Whether used as companions, working animals, or sources of food and fur in emergency situations, dogs held a significant place in early societies. The care and reverence shown towards dogs in burials, healing of their injuries, and their long lifespans demonstrate the deep connection between humans and dogs since ancient times. Dogs became an integral part of human communities, relying on their unique abilities and emotional support. This enduring bond continues to shape our relationship with dogs to this day.
For millennia dogs have been undoubtedly man’s best friend. But when did humans first start keeping dogs as pets? The fascinating story of how ancient hunter gatherers first domesticated our now beloved canines is the subject of today’s episode and takes us right back into the depths of the Ice Age.
Tristan is joined in this episode by archeologist Dr Angela Perri to chat about how the wild wolf packs that roamed the icy wastes of the ancient world gradually became the four pawed friends we know and love today.
This episode was edited by Aidan Lonergan and produced by Annie Coloe and Joseph Knight
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