Dogs: The Dog-Human Bond

The Dog in Modern Society

Did you know that the dog is the oldest domesticated animal? That’s right—before the cat, the horse, the ox, the cow, the sheep, or any of the other myriad domesticated animals we now have, the dog was first in line.

The human-dog connection goes back at least 12,000 years—many thousands before any other animal—and that’s full domestication. The relationship goes back much farther than that, to when humans and wolves first realized that, by co-operating and combining talents, they could all increase their hunting profits. So dogs became our partners in evolution, and here we are today—still bonded and still evolving together.

Do dogs still have a place in our modern, technologically driven society? I believe they not only have a place; they are essential. Dogs provide unique companionship rarely available from our fellow humans. They share every aspect of our lives; they give unquestioning loyalty; they give unconditional affection; they provide fun. In short, they constantly remind us that we are not the only species on the planet and that our way is not the only way.

Let us not forget that dogs perform many jobs in our society that require their unique talents. They do police work, therapy work, security work, farming work, hunting work, and guide-dog work. They are a source of joy and recreation for millions of young people, old people, single people, and families. How many human relationships have been cemented because of a dog? As an added bonus, the health benefits of owning a dog are huge because they are not only a source of fun but also of activity. After all, going for a walk every day is one of the best things you can do for your health--and the dog insists on it!

I know my dogs have seen me through a lot of ups and downs and my life would have been much diminished without them. What has been your experience with the dog-human bond? Let’s share! Tell us how your dog has enriched your life.