A new genetics-based study suggests that domesticated dogs first evolved from wolves in the Middle East. This is a significant shift as most researches previously believed dogs were first domesticated in East Asia.

Humanity's close relationship with dogs began some 15 - 20,000 years ago (back when "American Idol" was an amusing little show in its first season). Researchers believe wolves first began following tribes of hunter-gatherer humans to feed on their leftovers and the animals human hunters were able to wound but not kill. Its thought a smaller and less threatening band of wolves became dependent on these humans, and in turn provided them with an early warning system when other predators were around - in essence, becoming the first guard dogs.

In fact, given that human settlements first began to appear during the same time, dogs sentries may have played a crucial role in getting early humans to feel secure enough to stay in one spot and quit wandering all over the place.

Fascinating stuff -- there's more in this article if you're curious.

(image via flickr creative commons / antmoose)

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