  |
|
|
|
The next time you look over at Fido and see him as a big mooch, you should remember that the origins of our relationship with dogs is one that is steeped in mystery.
Although no one knows exactly when dogs were domesticated, archaeologists do know that many cultures around the globe began treating dogs like members of the tribe around 14,000 years ago. This alliance with dogs was so profound that in many ancient cemeteries dogs have been discovered buried in the same graves as humans. This link between man and beast is poignantly rendered in Jean M. Auel’s novel, The Valley of Horses, in which she gives us a fictional account of the possible beginnings of our relationship with the wolves that would later become our canine companions. Why are Dogs So Much a Part of Human Society?Dogs are team players. They take direction, naturally follow a social hierarchy, and easily accept humans as part of their pack. Dogs are smart, although Science Daily suggests that there is dispute among the experts about how to assess canine intelligence. One problem in evaluating animal intelligence is in establishing a basis for evaluation. If, for instance, a dog won't run an obstacle course; is it because he's not motivated (hungry) or not intelligent enough? Regardless of how the scientific community decides to define intelligence in dogs, no one who has ever spent time watching a police dog or guide dog would doubt their reasoning ability It is in the nature of dogs to be industrious and to try to please their pack-mates. This means that dogs can be taught to take direction and perform tasks that man is sometimes unwilling or unable to perform. These innate traits make dogs easily adaptable to human society. With so many breeds, it’s hard to imagine what the forerunners of the modern day canine might have been like. Through the centuries they have changed and adapted to better perform the tasks assigned to them. Again and again, they have been called upon to risk their lives in the service of their human allies. Every year there are newspaper stories and eyewitness accounts of dogs rescuing babies and young children, warning humans of impending danger, and finding lost loved ones over long and hazardous distances. After such a successful partnership with man, their fate is inextricably linked to that of humans. Man and Dogs - The Ties That Bind us TogetherDogs have the ability to feel deep affection and project unfailing good will. They are often good natured, accepting partners of our domestic circumstances. Dogs seldom complain, never threaten to leave us, and always forgive our failings. Their constancy can be a comforting presence as we maneuver our way through the obstacle course of modern life. Fido may be a mooch, he may even steal a cookie off the coffee table now and then, but if he does, consider it payment for long and valued service.
The copyright of the article Why Are Dogs Man's Best Friend? in Dogs is owned by S. Elliott. Permission to republish Why Are Dogs Man's Best Friend? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|
|
|
