Old Egyptian hieroglyphic painting showing an early instance of a domesticated animal (cow being milked). Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @Unknown authorUnknown author
The domestication of wolves was not an overnight event but a gradual process spanning thousands of years. It likely began with the taming of individual wolves, which were then bred selectively. Over generations, wolves that were more tolerant of humans and more helpful to them were favored, leading to a gradual transformation into dogs. The process of domestication was a two-way street, with humans also adapting to accommodate these new companions. This section delves into the intricacies of the domestication process, exploring the genetic, behavioral, and physical changes that occurred.