Ice-Age Dogs: Genetic Evidence Pushes Domestication to 15,800 Years Ago
TL;DR Summary
Ancient DNA from dog remains across Anatolia, the UK, and Serbia shows dogs were widespread in Europe and western Asia by about 14,000 years ago, with the oldest specimen dating to 15,800 years. Isotopic data indicate dogs ate fish, suggesting they were fed by humans, and puppies buried with a human at Pınarbaşı point to deep emotional bonds. The findings push the origin of domesticated dogs to the last Ice Age and imply rapid spread and sustained human–dog relationships, with many modern European breeds tracing substantial ancestry to these ancient dogs.
- Bond between dogs and humans dates back more than 15,000 years, study finds The Guardian
- Genomic history of early dogs in Europe Nature
- Genetic study identifies earliest-known dog — from 15,800 years ago KSL.com
- Humans Had Dogs Before They Had Farming, Ancient DNA Confirms The New York Times
- Dogs became man's best friend far earlier than thought, scientists find BBC
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