Dogs have been shaped by humans for at least 10,000 years, starting with the development of sled dogs by Arctic peoples. Initially, breeding was performance-oriented, focusing on dogs' utility, for various roles like hunting and labor. However, the 19th century brought a shift as Victorian dog fanciers prioritized physical traits over work capability. They established breed standards and created a lineage of distinct dog breeds, leading to reproductively isolated populations. This shift has significantly influenced the genetic makeup and diversity of modern dog breeds today.
At least 10,000 years ago, Arctic peoples were using selective breeding to create sled dogs, cold-tolerant animals with the stamina to pull heavy loads over long distances.
Victorian dog fanciers began to codify existing breeds and invent new ones, shifting the focus from performance to the ideal physical specimen.
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