Dogs began developing into different breeds 11,000 years ago: study

"Scientists at the University of Exeter have analysed hundreds of archaeological canine specimens spanning the last 50,000 years. They've managed to pinpoint the surprisingly early time dogs began to physically diversify - around 11,000 years ago. The findings challenge 'long-standing assumptions' that dogs look different only because of selective breeding since the Victorian era. The researchers don't deny that the Victorians were largely responsible for what we now know as breeds."

"Working with colleagues in France, the scientists analysed 643 modern and archaeological skulls belonging to the dog family (canid). The sample, dating back 50,000 years, included recognised breeds, street dogs and wolves. The researchers also created 3D models of the skulls to better study their size and shape. Results showed a wide range of skull shapes and sizes among domestic dogs 11,000 years ago, not too long after their divergence from wolves."

Hundreds of archaeological canine specimens spanning 50,000 years were analysed, including recognised breeds, street dogs and wolves. Three-dimensional models of 643 modern and archaeological skulls were created to assess cranial size and shape. Domestic dogs displayed a wide range of skull shapes and sizes by about 11,000 years ago, shortly after divergence from wolves. Mesolithic and Neolithic dogs already exhibited roughly half of the total cranial variation seen in modern dogs. Extreme skull morphologies characteristic of some modern breeds, such as pugs and bull terriers, were absent at that time. The earliest identified domestic dog specimen came from the Russian Mesolithic site of Veretye.

Read at Mail Online