It might appear that your pet dog and a wild wolf are like two different worlds, and science proves it to be much closer than what most people think. Even after many thousands of years of domestication, dogs remain genetically equipped with the remnants of their forerunners the wolves. These genes can affect all aspects like behavior and communication as well as instinct and social bonding. Although the dogs have learned how to coexist with people, their wild nature is deeply engrained in their DNA. This relationship can not only be used to explain a lot of the common dog behaviors but also to assist owners in better appreciating and responding to the natural instincts of their pets.
Dogs and Wolves had a common ancestor.
The ancient dog and the grey wolves have the same ancestor. Genetic analyses indicate that dogs are not only close to wolves but they should also be considered a subspecies. This common ancestry is the reason behind the fact that dogs and wolves are still able to interbreed and give birth to children.
How Domestication Modified but did not eliminate Wolf Genes.
Domestication chose those dogs which were friendlier and less fearful of humans, but their essential genetic makeup was not eliminated. Most of the wolf genes have been preserved due to the facilitation of survival earmarks such as intelligence, flexibility, and social collaboration.
Pet dog pack mentality still exists.
Wolves are in groups and there are well-defined social setups and dogs tend to behave in the same way. Dogs tend to seek their owners as leaders, stick to the routine, and highly react to social stimuli as they have an inbuilt mind of a pack.
Wolves are the Raisers of Communication Behaviors.
The origins of howling, growling, barking, and body language are based on wolf communication. Dogs even communicate subtly, such as where an ear is or the movement of a tail, is an inherited form of expression of feelings and intentions that dogs use when interacting with their pack.
Lust to hunt is a very genetic thing.
Any thing like chasing after squirrels, stalking of playthings or paying excessive attention to movement are behaviors related to wolf hunting instincts. The dogs that are well-fed can also exhibit these acts since the genes in this case are still active.
The Territorial Nature Has its Ancient Sources.
Wolves defend their territory as a sign of safety and resources and dogs also defend their areas of interest by guarding properties, toys or loved ones. This drive is not aggression but a defense instinct.
Survival Needs Gift Problem-Solving Skills.
Wolves are intelligent hunters and are intelligent to survive, and the dogs passed on this mental keenness. Arguing puzzle toys, command learning, and habit adjustment are examples of the wolf-like mental capacities of a dog.
Why Knowing Wolf Genes Makes Dog Care Better.
It is important to understand that dogs still reason and feel instinctively to provide their owners with greater awareness on how to train and care about them. Activities that stimulate their intellect, which promote their social character and serve as organization are natural to their wolf heritage.
