-->

• Dogs descended from wolves, and were first domesticated by humans about 15,000 years ago. The term dog may also be applied to various wild species of the canine family such as hyenas and coyotes.

  The hundreds of different dog breeds produce a wide variety of dog shapes and sizes. Dogs have been selectively bred by humans to create breeds that a specialized to perform certain functions such as pulling sleds, herding livestock or retrieving game. Breeders may also choose to breed animals to produce certain physical and behavioral characteristics including coat color and texture, temperament, ear shape and tail length.

  Although they may appear extremely different in appearance, all dogs remain in the same species which means that they can interbreed with one another. Although many people prefer pure-bred dogs, mixed breeds are equally as popular and numerous.

• Fast Facts

  1. Estimated 400 million dogs worldwide
  2. Dogs were first domesticated in Asia
  3. Highly developed senses of smell and hearing
  4. Dogs are carnivorous by nature
  5. Male dogs are referred to as "dogs," while females are called "bitches" in breeding circles
  6. Based on ability to understand new commands, border collies are the smartest breed

• Related Mahalo Pages

  How to Remove Porcupine Quills | How to Adopt a Dog | How to Tell If a Dog Is Pregnant | How to Potty Train a Puppy | How to Clean Dog Urine | How to Leash Train a Dog | How to Build a Dog House | Parrots | Cats | Miniature Schnauzer | Golden Retriever | Labrador Retriever | Border Collie | Portuguese Water Dog | Canine Lyme Disease | Dog Agility | Pet Vaccine Controversy | Pet Leash | Pet Collar | Cockapoo | Goldendoodle | Rabies | Neutering | Spaying | Green Puppy | How to Choose a Cat Urine Remover | Dog Costumes | Dog Saves Dog Video | How to Choose a Dog Breed | How to Remove a Tick from a Dog | How to Become a Dog Breeder | How to Camp With Pets | 5 Legged Puppy

Categories

• View History
• Discuss on the Message Board
• Embed this Page
• Share this page