Dogs have long been considered man’s best friend, but what is it about this unique bond that sets it apart from our relationships with other animals? Recent research has shed new light on the evolution of dogs, and scientists are now delving deeper than ever before to understand the origins of our beloved companions.
In Siberia, a groundbreaking breeding experiment has revealed the incredible story of how dogs evolved from wolves. Swedish scientists have also made a remarkable discovery, linking the human-dog bond to a powerful hormone responsible for bonding mothers to their infants.
But what makes dogs so attuned to our emotions? Horizon meets Betsy, a dog renowned for her exceptional intelligence, and examines her abilities in comparison to those of children. As it turns out, dogs possess an uncanny ability to read our emotions and even assist in identifying genes responsible for causing human diseases.
These recent findings have sparked a renewed interest in the study of dogs, solidifying their status as a valuable tool in understanding not just ourselves, but also the evolution of the animal kingdom. As we continue to uncover the secrets of our canine companions, one thing is certain: the bond between man and dog is truly extraordinary.