Scientific Names

Dogs have been domesticated from wolves for over 15,000 years and have evolved alongside humans as our companions. There are numerous breeds descended from distinct species within the genus Canis. The scientific names of dogs are based on their genealogy and taxonomic position. The two main scientific classifications are:

Canis familiaris, which refers to domesticated dogs whose ancestors are directly related to gray wolves. This classification includes the dominant breeds kept as beloved pets around the world.

Furthermore, dogs that exhibit wolf-like traits, resulting from the planned mating of domesticated dogs with wild gray wolves or eastern wolves, are classified as Canis lupus familiaris. These hybrids possess a combination of wolf and domestic dog ancestry in their genetic makeup.

All domesticated dogs and their wolf relatives are classified within the Canidae family, a group of carnivorous mammals that includes foxes and jackals, among others. "Canis" in Latin means "dog," and is the name given to the genus that includes wolves and dogs based on their close family relationship.

Dogs are a domesticated subspecies of wolves. There are several species of dogs, which we will detail below. Dogs have two scientific names, depending on their species. The two scientific names for dogs are:

Canis familiaris (domestic dog) - the most common and best suited for most pet dogs.

Domestic wolfdog (Canis lupus familiaris) - a subspecies of wolf.

All species of dogs belong to the Canidae family, which are canine-like carnivores. The genus "Canis" means "dog" and includes wolves, dogs, coyotes, and jackals. Their subfamily is Caninae, or dogs, while their tribe is the dog-like tribe Canini, or "true dogs." Their subtribe is the dog-like tribe Canina, which resembles wolves. Dogs were among the first animals domesticated by prehistoric humans.

A dog wandering around the gorilla habitat in San Diego, seemingly unfazed. Cover Image

Man's best friend is a descendant of the domesticated wolf. The History of Domestication

The relationship between humans and dogs has been a close partnership since ancient times. This relationship likely arose from humans' need for assistance with herding, hunting, and alarm systems, as well as a food source. In return, dogs were provided with protection, shelter, and companionship. The exact timing of this relationship is still debated.

Research using mitochondrial DNA (MtDNA) has revealed that wolves and dogs split into two separate species approximately 100,000 years ago. While MtDNA research has provided some insights into the period of domestication, which may have occurred between 40,000 and 20,000 years ago, scientists have not reached consensus on the exact results. Some theories suggest that domestication first occurred in East Asia, while others suggest it occurred in the Middle East, and still others suggest that domestication occurred in Europe at a later stage.

Experts now acknowledge that the diversity of dog breeds we see today only emerged recently. However, this remarkable diversity of dogs is reminiscent of their traditional and diverse domestication processes. Dogs range in size from tiny poodles, weighing less than one pound, to massive mastiffs weighing over 200 pounds. Furthermore, skull, body, and limb shapes vary among breeds, and they also have varying abilities, such as searching, retrieving, pointing, and herding livestock.

Humans were originally hunters and gatherers, and as they moved, their dogs moved with them. This meant that the two populations were geographically isolated for a period of time. As populations increased and trade networks developed, humans reconnected, and dog breeds genetically mixed. About 500 years ago, breeders produced different types of dogs from a relatively homogeneous genetic pool of dogs with mixed genetic origins originating from different regions.

A dog with a duck in its mouth

Humans and dogs have been in a long-standing partnership since ancient times, shaped by the human need to assist with herding, hunting, and protection.

Characteristics

There are many types of dogs, but all members of the genus Canis share physical characteristics. Bone structure, behavior, and breeding are just some of the hallmarks that are unique to dogs. Many dog ​​species have unique characteristics that distinguish them from wolves. You can use some of these signs to determine whether your dog is a wolf or a dog.

Canines

Dogs are descended from wolves and have a tooth pattern that reflects their carnivorous diet. Their teeth are sharp and designed for tearing and chewing meat. The four sharp, pointed teeth that many humans have are called "canines" because of their similarity. Teeth are one of the easiest ways to identify a dog. Most dogs (of the Canidae family) have 42 teeth.

Other Characteristics of Dogs

Dogs generally share similar skull features, basic body shape, solitary and group behavior, and the retention of young adults.

Diet

Because dogs are descended from wolves, they are carnivores, and their biology is designed for a meat-based diet. However, very few domestic dogs today eat only meat. Modern dog food is much cheaper than a meat-only diet and provides a wider range of nutrients.

Today's dog food is often made by combining meat with grains and vegetables. Various types of meat, such as salmon, chicken, venison, beef, and pork, are used in dog food. These meats are often combined with potatoes, peas, carrots, and other vegetables.

Dog costumes may make us smile, but their nutritional needs are no laughing matter.

Depending on your pet's nutritional needs, there are many dog ​​foods to choose from. There are foods to help your pet gain weight, foods to help them lose weight, and allergy-friendly foods are also available. Many dog ​​owners start by choosing wet dog food over dry dog ​​food and then move on to choosing the right dog food. Here are some of the best dog food options:

Best Overall Dog Food

Best Organic Dog Food

Best Dog Food for Allergies

Best Wet Dog Food

Best Dry Dog Food

Best High-Calorie Dog Food

Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Some houseplants are toxic to dogs, including begonias, poinsettias, and aloe vera. Many human foods are indigestible or toxic to dogs, such as chocolate.

They are also known for their fermented foods, such as onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, xylitol, and nicotine. Dietarily, dogs are omnivores and can consume a diet containing more starch than wolves, which are primarily carnivores.

Dog bowl with peas in it

Dogs can eat meat, grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Traits

Dogs exhibit greater behavioral and physical diversity than any other land mammal, including wolves. They have acid phosphatase in their red blood cells, which is a starch gel. Their tympanic bullae are smaller, more compressed, and more wrinkled. Physically, dogs' foreheads are more domed, "stopped" between the nose and forehead.

Wolves have a prominent temporalis muscle (the muscle that closes the jaws) and lack dew claws on their hind legs. Dogs lack an anterior caudal gland and go into heat twice instead of once a year. While dogs typically have brown eyes, wolves have amber or pale eyes. Their skin is thicker, and their claws are half the size of a wolf's.

Exceptions to Dogs

There are several tribes within the canine subfamily. The Canini tribe is a sister tribe to the Vulpini. They belong to the Caniformia (or Canoidea) order, which are dog-like carnivores. They contrast sharply with the Felidae (or Feloidea) order, which are cat-like carnivores.

Jack Russell Terrier with a donut in front

Dogs' eyes are brown, while wolves typically have amber eyes.

Types of Dogs

Several types of dog groups are classified based on what they were bred to do:

Sporting Dogs

Sporting dogs were bred to help hunters hunt and retrieve wild birds. Retrievers swim and focus on hunting waterfowl, while setters, spaniels, and pointers hunt terrestrial birds. Their coats are often thick and water-repellent to protect them from the elements. Examples of sporting dog breeds include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, and German Shorthaired Pointer.

Scent Hounds

Scent hounds were bred to pursue warm-blooded terrestrial prey. These dogs are generally divided into sight hounds, which use speed and vision to chase down hares and antelope, and scent hounds, which use their noses to track raccoons and humans. All have a strong prey instinct. Examples of scent hound breeds include bloodhounds, greyhounds, and dachshunds.

Bassett Hound

Dogs can track a scent that is more than 48 hours old.

Working Hounds

Working hounds were bred for tasks such as guarding families or pulling sleds and carts. Examples of working dog breeds include the Boxer, Great Dane, and Rottweiler.

Herding Dogs

Herding dogs are a type of working dog, along with service dogs. While herding dogs help herd livestock, service dogs help people with disabilities. However, these dogs are specifically bred to herd livestock, such as sheep, cattle, and reindeer. Some are excellent for police and military work. Examples of herding dog breeds include the Border Collie, German Shepherd, and Icelandic Sheepdog.

Herding Dogs for Herding Sheep

Herding dogs must have a keen eye.

Terriers

Terriers were bred to be small and to hunt down insects hidden in the ground. These breeds include the terrier, which has long legs that enable it to dig the ground in search of rodents, and the "bully" breeds, which were used to chase bulls and are now considered companion dogs. Examples of terrier breeds include the Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Welsh Terrier. Some terrier breeds, such as the Airedale Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, and Irish Terrier, have curly coats.

Toy Dogs

Toy dogs were bred for their small size to be companion dogs. They are ideal for city dwellers or anyone living in a small home. Examples of toy dog ​​breeds include the Chihuahua, Pug, and Shih Tzu.

Non-Sporting Dogs

Non-sporting dogs are not classified within any of the other groups and were bred to be pets. Examples of non-sporting dogs include the Bulldog, Dalmatian, and Miniature Poodle.

You can check out dogs that can protect you from dangerous animals, such as mountain lions, while hiking.

A white poodle playing in the park

Toy poodles were bred to be companions.

Dog-Wolf Hybrids

Dogs and modern wolves share a common ancestor. Many large dog breeds, such as malamutes and huskies, have been crossbred with wolves. Some are in demand by citizens, while others are used for security work. For example, in the late 1990s, the Russians established a program to breed wolf-dog hybrids called Volkosupi or Volkosup, which are used for border control.