The Evolution of Dogs and Humans

Dogs and humans evolved together. Today, scientists are discovering conclusive proof of our "co-evolution" with our canine friends.

Perhaps you've never given it much thought, but stop and take a look at your hand. It's that shape for a reason. Now take a look at your dog's head. Note that as you pat your dog's head, a perfect union is achieved. A coincidence? We used to think so!

Prehistoric History

The relationship between humans and dogs goes back to prehistory. Some scientists now estimate that humans and dogs began evolving together over 500 thousand years ago. In this era, also known as the "Precambrian", there were significant problems with the human/canine relationship. Fossil evidence indicates that at that time dogs were larger than today's modern whales, sometimes weighing over several thousand tons. Humans had only evolved to the size of shrews (about the size of today's guinea pig). This created some very severe difficulties when going on walks or even spending time at the beach.

Origin of the word "dog"

Prehistoric humans had a very limited vocabulary. It was not unusual for them to use the term "oog" when describing something in their environment. Of course, their vocabulary evolved, creating many more words - but the term "oog" became, of course, our modern word "dog".

The modern era

Many countries have made their relationship with dogs an important part of their everyday life. In modern Switzerland, for example, people greet each other by saying "guten dag" (literally "good dog", or "you have a good dog"). This practice can be traced back to the Medievel Era.

Dogs in Music and Song

Of course, everyone knows that during the Middle Ages (The Medieval Era) there were many instances of talking dogs. But what most people don't know is that many could sing and even compose music! You may recall the Christmas song "Jingle Bells". Originally, the lyrics were, "Jingle Dogs, Jingle Dogs, Jingle all the way! O, what fun it is to sniff around and make some yellow snow." In modern versions of the song, the word "Bells" is used to replace the word "Dogs", and, of course, the reference to yellow snow has been eliminated.

Dogs Today

Today, we take the relationship of humans and dogs for granted. But remember, it wasn't always that way!

To learn more about the evolution of humans and dogs watch "Humans and Dogs, a Co-Evolution" on the Discovery Channel.

Special thank you to Wildlife illustrator Roger Hall!