Dogs are experiencing a third wave of domestication. Humans now favor friendly, calm, and adaptable pets over working animals. This shift influences canine behavior and biology.
Oxytocin, the hormone linked to social bonding, plays a key role in this transformation. A 2017 study by Sweden’s Linköping University found that oxytocin influences how dogs seek human interaction. Researchers tested 60 golden retrievers by giving them an impossible-to-open treat jar. The canines with a certain genetic variant of the oxytocin receptor responded more strongly to oxytocin spray. These dogs were more likely to seek help from humans.
WHY DOGS ARE CHANGING
Dogs are adapting to modern lifestyles. In urban environments, traditional working-dog behaviors like guarding or herding are less desirable. High-energy or anxious dogs often struggle in city settings, increasing their chances of being surrendered to shelters. This shift pushes domestication toward selecting calmer, more sociable one.
THE THREE WAVES OF DOMESTICATION
The first domestication wave began over 14,000 years ago. Early humans unintentionally attracted wolves by leaving food waste near settlements. Over generations, the least aggressive wolves evolved into companionable ones.
The second wave followed the Industrial Revolution. Selective breeding created the 200 breeds recognized today, focusing on aesthetics and specific working skills.
Now, a third wave emerges—one that prioritizes temperament and adaptability over physical traits. Service dogs, trained for assistance roles, embody the ideal of this new domestication era.
A NEW FUTURE FOR DOGS
Woods and Hare argue that breeding and training should focus on temperament, ensuring the canines thrive in modern settings. Service dogs already showcase this shift. Unlike typical pets, they are calm, responsive, and well-suited for companionship.
As humans shape the next phase of domestication, they select traits like patience, sociability, and adaptability. This selection will lead to better canine-human relationships. By intentionally guiding this evolution, we can ensure that they continue to be happy, healthy, and integrated into modern life.