Dogs. Where did they come from?

In all my life, I have kept various pets, which include: Rats, fish, birds, lobsters, and dogs . However, I still feel that dogs are the best pets as they make good companions, they can adapt to different lifestyles. Dogs are also extremely smart, and loyal. Although dogs may seem fierce and protective, they are also cute and cuddly creatures. A treat or a pat is enough to get them to go on their belly.

To understand dogs better, we should also look at their ancestors, the wolf. Yes, according to scientist, dogs actually originated from the wolf. Therefore dogs are also known to have behaviours similar to their wolf counterparts. Like the wolf, dogs are extremely territorial; hence they will mark their territory with their scent. Usually, dogs would use their urine a scent-marker. Another behavior trait which is seen in both dogs and wolfs are the fact that they always have a leader, the alpha male. The alpha males command the pack, and likewise dogs will also look for their “alpha” male in the household, in most cases it would be the father of the family. The dog will always obey the alpha male, and is always seen to be very obedient when with the alpha male. Lastly, dogs and wolfs have similar expression used to show their emotion. For example, Fear ,when a dog or wolf is suspicious or frightened it will attempt to make itself look small and less conspicuous; the ears will lie flat against the head, and the tail may be tucked between the legs.

Up to date, The American Kennel Club officially recognizes 150 different breeds of dogs. Different breeds have their unique characteristics. The difference between breeds can be very extreme, for example, a the world tallest dog, Certified by the Guiness Book of World Records, is Gibson, a Harlequin Great Dane, who measured 107 cm. While on the other hand The smallest dog in terms of length is Heaven Sent Brandy, a female Chihuahua who measured just 15.2 cm from the nose to the tip of the tail!

Dogs also have different needs, depending on their breed. Some require more grooming, while others may require skin care. Different dogs have different life span and illnesses. Some are more prone to breaking their bones, while others are more prone to back injuries.

Dogs have been one of the oldest domesticated pets in history. They are able to serve the various needs of humans, be it a family, an old couple, young children, or someone who is single. They bond very well with their owners. And very often, the owner and dog are very attached to each other, and are almost inseparable.

I feel that it is very important for all dog owners to treat their dog well, and be responsible. In the recent years, there has been an increase in the number of dogs being abandoned by their owner. The main reason is because the dog has become more of a hassle to the family. And the family can no longer take care of the dog. However, I feel that this is reason is not valid. When someone adopts a dog, the dog has become a family member, and we should never abandon our family members when they are in need.

“To you he may be just a dog, but to him you are everything”…