The Domesticated Wolf On Your Couch

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See that lovely little furball snuggling on your couch—that’s a wolf. Yes, really, dogs are actually domesticated wolves. They are a sub-species of the grey wolf and are still considered wolves.

The modern dog is scientifically known as Canis lupus familiaris.

Which exactly translates to:

• Canis: “Dog”
• lupus: “Wolf”
• familiaris: “domestic.”

So, it literally means “domesticated wolf.”

There are also 30 other subspecies of Canis lupus. From the Artic region to the outback of Texas, they vary greatly in size. The smallest weighs anywhere from 30 to 35 pounds, and the largest averages 95 to 100 pounds. (“Dog: Wolves, Coyotes, Foxes | Britannica.com”)

Photo byJamie StreetonUnsplash

From wolf to couch

Wolves and dogs share a lot of similarities, especially when it comes to their instincts. Think about how dogs play, establish dominance, or even how they scent-mark their territory. These behaviors are straight out of the wolf handbook. Wolves and dogs both rely heavily on their social structures, and their pack mentality is a big part of why they’ve been able to form such tight-knit bonds with humans over the years.

Wolves are incredibly social animals. This social nature made it possible for early humans to interact with wolves in mutually beneficial ways. A few thousand years later, wolves evolved into our modern-day companions. (“How Are Wolves & Dogs the Same? | cuteness.com”)

Apart from looks, what other differences exist?

For one, wolves mature a lot slower than dogs. While dogs reach adolescence at around six months, a wolf won’t reach sexual or social maturity until it’s two or three years old.

Another difference? The female wolf only cycles once a year, whereas dogs typically cycle twice. Wolves are also much more physically and behaviorally cautious when it comes to reproduction and leadership within the pack. (“Wolf vs. Dog: What’s the Difference? | rover.com”)

How did we end up with 400+ dog breeds?

Dogs have been with humans for over 12,000 years. They started out as hunting companions. Humans relied on woles sharp senses of smell and sight to help track down prey.

What started as a partnership of necessity eventually evolved into one of companionship. Over time, humans began to breed dogs to enhance certain traits. Need a good herding dog? Breed one with sharp instincts for rounding up livestock. Want a lap dog? Start selecting for smaller size and a friendlier demeanor.

Now, we have over 400 distinct dog breeds that have been tailored to all sorts of human needs. (“20 Ways Humans Have Shaped Dogs' Evolutionary History | newsweek.com”)

Regardless of their wild ancestry, dogs today are firmly planted in our homes, our hearts, and even our beds.