You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Many theories on the evolution of the domesticated dog have been put forward over the years based upon our historical and archaeological records. Advances in DNA analysis take us closer to the truth.

The true origin of our domesticated breeds of dog has puzzled man for hundreds of years. Now, at last, we are close to the truth, thanks to recent developments in DNA analysis. 

Analysis of data taken from DNA sequencing of the D-loop of DNA in mitochondria (intracellular organelles responsible for energy production) suggests that our current breeds of dog have evolved from the wolf, which probably started to become domesticated over 100,000 years ago.

However, few of our breeds today (and there are some 400 dog breeds worldwide) retain the physical or behavioural characteristics that wild wolves possess. Selective breeding by owners has successfully created a wide range of variations in size (Great Danes to Chihuahuas), physical ability (racing Greyhounds to Bulldogs) and temperament ( Irish Wolfhounds to Pit Bull Terriers) to suit our human needs for working animals (eg sled dogs) and companionship (eg toy breed lap dogs). Nowadays dogs are most likely to be family members and they are rarely true working animals, although some do work as part of our leisure pursuits. 

If we can achieve such a remarkable range of breed variation in such a relatively short time - what about the future ? Hopefully the advances in DNA analysis will enable us to selectively breed away from individuals carrying genes for disease before we start to alter dog DNA for genetically programmable characteristics to create "designer dogs " .....Poodles with permanent lime green or pink hair coat color for example !

Updated October 2013