Dogs and humans are seen as partners in evolution

Abstract

After splitting genetically from wolves about 135,000 years ago, dogs have followed humans through every step in their cultural and social development, from hunting and gathering to agricultural societeies, from the farm to the city and suburb. The dog has helped domesticate sheep and cattle, served as a guard, beast of burden, guide, and companion capable of easing the pain of loneliness. So closely entwined are their lives that a number of evolutionary biologists argue that dogs and humans have evolved together.