The
domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris or Canis familiaris) is a member of genus
Canis (canines) that forms part of the wolf-like canids, and is the most widely
abundant carnivore. The dog and the extant gray wolf are sister taxa, with
modern wolves not closely related to the wolves that were first domesticated,
which implies that the direct ancestor of the dog is extinct. The dog was the
first domesticated species and has been selectively bred over millennia for
various behaviors, sensory capabilities, and physical attributes.
New
research seems to show that the dog's high sociability may be affected by
"the same genes as in humans." Their long association with humans has
led dogs to be uniquely attuned to human behavior and they are able to thrive
on a starch-rich diet that would be inadequate for other canid species. Dogs
vary widely in shape, size and colours. Dogs perform many roles for people,
such as hunting, herding, pulling loads, protection, assisting police and
military, companionship and, more recently, aiding handicapped individuals and
therapeutic roles. This influence on human society has given them the sobriquet
"man's best friend".
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