Nature Season 20 Episode 2 Dogs: the Early Years

Dogs have been human's companions for millennia, but where did this special bond start? "Nature" season 20 episode 2, titled Dogs: the Early Years, explores the origins of the human-dog relationship.

The episode takes us back to the prehistoric era and investigates the first domesticated dogs. Scientists and archaeologists have found evidence that wild dogs and humans first interacted around 15,000 years ago during the Stone Age. The show explores the hypothesis that early humans took in and domesticated wolf pups, which eventually evolved into the dogs we know today.

The episode features experts in the fields of archaeology, genetics, and animal behavior who discuss the evolution of dogs and their role in human society. They explain how dogs have adapted to human environments and developed new physical and mental attributes to serve their human companions. For example, dogs have learned how to understand and respond to human body language, verbal commands, and emotions to become better companions.

The episode also introduces us to how dogs have been trained throughout the years for different purposes such as hunting, herding, guarding, and even working in the military. With each purpose, breeds have been developed specifically for the task at hand, highlighting the versatility of these amazing creatures.

Throughout the episode, we meet individual dogs and their owners, and get to witness the special bond between them. From a service dog assisting his owner with daily tasks to a family pet providing comfort and love, the range of roles dogs have taken on in our society is vast and varied.

The documentary also examines how certain dog breeds have suffered due to selective breeding and popular demand for certain physical attributes. For example, dog breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and French bulldogs have been bred to have shorter snouts, which can lead to breathing problems and other health issues. The show raises awareness about the importance of responsible breeding and the need to prioritize dogs' welfare over physical appearance.

Dogs have been a crucial part of human history and continue to be a beloved and important part of our lives. This episode of "Nature" provides a fascinating insight into their early history, evolution, and the unique relationship they share with humans. It celebrates the bond between dogs and humans while also highlighting the need for responsible dog ownership and breeding.