History of the Dog

Sage Canine Advice, by Sage Riverdog – May 20, 2012

Dogs can all trace their heritage back to the wolf.  It’s amazing how a breed of animal has been able to adapt and change from a wild pack hunter to the specialized dogs of today. Consider the wide variety of dogs in our world today – they range in size from the Chihuahua at 6 to 9 inches and 2 to 6 pounds to the Great Dane of 30 to 32 inches and 100 to 120 pounds.

Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog

Great Danes are, well, great!

All dogs descended from the wolf, and many researchers believe the domestication of dogs occurred around 10,000 BC. This may have happened by accident, where an abandoned puppy was taken in by humans. Dogs, being pack animals, adapted easily to a mixed, dog/human pack. Then over several thousand years of natural selection, different breeds were formed for specific uses and now you have over 300 recognized breeds in the world. Half of these breeds are identified by the AKC (American Kennel Club). There are 25 most popular breeds of the AKC, and at the top of that list is the Laborator.

Sage - Black Laborador - AKC's most popular breed of dog

Not to brag, but it’s kind of nice being so popular. So the next time you greet your dog or encounter a dog in passing, think about the fact that dogs evolved to be of value to humans, and let them know they are appreciated. 

About Sage – Sage is an 8-year-old black Labrador retriever who lives with River District Executive Director Edna Chirico and Edna’s husband, John Huber. Sage earned a Canine Good Citizen award, which allows her to visit nursing homes, hospitals and schools. Sage loves to run, fetch, swim, ride in boats, travel in the car and play with just about anyone, especially children.