Module 1 - Evolution of the domestic dog Flashcards
Dogs and wolves share a common ancestor known as the …
Gray wolf (Canis Lupus)
Roughly when did modern wolves and dogs become distinct from each other?
20,000 to 40,000 years ago
What are the oldest remains of a domestic dog found in Europe and how old is it and in what country was it found?
A jaw bone dated 14,700 years old, found in Germany
Domestic dogs belong to a family of 35 living species. What is the family name?
Canidae family
What is the dog’s Latin name?
Canis Lupus Familiaris
How many globally recognised modern dog breeds are there?
There are approximately 450 globally recognised breeds
What happens when a family of wolves break away or migrate from their living area?
They will encounter a different environment and need to adapt and therefore, evolve. This is known as natural selection.
What species are members of the evolutionary family tree of the Genus Canis?
Domestic dog, wolf, coyote, jackal and fox
Name one of the earliest breeds that were modified by artificial selection for its traits.
The Greyhound
What was the first fully distinct breed?
The Saluki
What are the five specialised skills associated with dogs?
Hunting, shepherding, guarding, working and company
What is scent?
Chemical particles with an odour
What is the ability to pick up on social cues called?
Social cognitive intelligence
What factor contributed to the domestication of dogs?
The ability to pick up on social cues
