Renowned Author Tamsin Pickeral Unpacks ‘The Invention of the Dog’ in Engaging Podcast Discussion

In a recent insightful episode of "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation," hosted by Dr. Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, acclaimed animal specialist and art historian Tamsin Pickeral delved into the rich tapestry of canine history, exploring the origins and evolution of various dog breeds. The discussion centered on Pickeral’s latest work, The Invention of the Dog: 75 Breeds that Changed the World, a meticulously researched and lavishly illustrated book that offers a captivating journey through the annals of our beloved companions. The podcast, a platform known for its deep dives into animal welfare and behavior, provided an excellent forum to dissect the complex relationship between humans and dogs, particularly how human intervention has shaped the canine world over millennia.

Tracing Canine Origins: A Deep Dive into Domestication

The conversation opened with the fundamental question of canine diversity: how did dogs, all descendants of wolves, come to exhibit such a vast array of physical characteristics and specialized abilities? Pickeral explained that the prevailing scientific consensus places the domestication of dogs between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago, a period coinciding with the Late Pleistocene era, characterized by an ice age and the presence of Neanderthals alongside early Homo sapiens. This makes dogs the first species to be domesticated by humans, predating even agricultural practices.

Pickeral elaborated on two prominent theories regarding canine evolution from wolves. One theory suggests that early humans actively sought out and tamed wolf pups, raising them within their communities. These tamed wolves would then be selectively bred for desired traits, initiating the domestication process. The second, increasingly favored theory, posits a process of "self-domestication." This theory suggests that certain wolves, possessing genes for extreme sociability, were naturally less fearful of humans. These wolves would have gravitated towards human settlements, scavenging on discarded food scraps and gradually becoming accustomed to human presence. Over generations, this reduced fear and increased interaction led to genetic changes, resulting in the physical and behavioral traits we associate with dogs today. "I quite like [the self-domestication theory]," Pickeral remarked, "because some studies have been done to show that there’s some genes on a chromosome that account for extreme sociability in dogs and wolves." This gradual, co-evolutionary process likely involved elements of both theories, with humans eventually recognizing the utility of these semi-domesticated animals and accelerating the selection process.

The pivotal shift, Pickeral highlighted, occurred around 10,000 years ago with the advent of settled human life and agriculture. As humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to permanent settlements, the functions required of dogs diversified dramatically. "All of a sudden there were different functions for dogs to do," Pickeral noted. Dogs were no longer just hunting partners; they became protectors of homes and livestock, herders, and even beasts of burden. This diversification of roles served as a powerful selective pressure. Humans began to intentionally breed dogs that excelled at specific tasks: aggressive dogs for guarding, agile dogs for herding, swift dogs for hunting, and powerful dogs for pulling. This functional specialization laid the groundwork for the incredible morphological and behavioral diversity seen in modern breeds. As trade routes expanded across continents, different dog types developed in isolation were introduced to new regions, further diversifying the gene pool and leading to new combinations of traits.

Stories of Specific Breeds: From Imperial Palace to Industrial Mill

Pickeral’s book, The Invention of the Dog, spotlights 75 breeds, each with its own unique narrative. During the podcast, specific examples were explored, demonstrating the breadth of canine history.

The Shih Tzu: An Imperial Legacy
Dr. Zazie Todd, a Shih Tzu owner herself, inquired about the origins of her beloved breed. Pickeral unveiled the Shih Tzu’s ancient and regal lineage, tracing it back to at least the Tang Dynasty in China (6th century CE), where early depictions in artwork provide evidence of small, long-coated lap dogs. The breed’s deeper heritage, however, is thought to lie with Buddhist monks in Lhasa, Tibet, in the Himalayas. These monks, renowned for their small dog breeding programs, developed dogs similar to the modern Shih Tzu, which they revered as "little lion dogs"—a potent symbol of strength and courage in Buddhism. These dogs, alongside the Lhasa Apso, emerged from their breeding efforts.

These ancient Tibetan dogs were often gifted to Chinese emperors, gradually developing distinct characteristics within the imperial palaces. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and the subsequent Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the Shih Tzu, alongside the Pekingese and early Pug, became highly favored royal companions. Empress Dowager Cixi (1835-1908) was a particularly ardent patron and breeder of these "lion dogs." Her dedication ensured the breed’s prominence until her death. However, the political turmoil and mass destruction following the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1911 severely threatened these imperial breeds. Fortunately, some individuals survived, with two particularly significant Shih Tzus making their way to England with Lady Brownrigg, initiating the breed’s global spread and eventual formalization. This fascinating journey from sacred Tibetan companion to imperial Chinese lapdog, and then to a beloved international pet, underscores the profound influence of culture and politics on breed development.

The Bernese Mountain Dog: Swiss Versatility and Wisdom
Kristi Benson, expressing a secret admiration for the Bernese Mountain Dog, prompted Pickeral to discuss this majestic breed. The Bernese, named after the canton of Bern in central-west Switzerland, boasts a history stretching back approximately 2,000 years. Its lineage is linked to the Roman invasion of Switzerland, when Roman legions brought their diverse array of dogs, including mastiff-type ancestors, into the region. These Roman dogs interbred with local canines, eventually giving rise to the robust, versatile breeds suited for the challenging Alpine environment.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss dairy farm breeds, alongside the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Appenzeller, and the Entlebucher. These dogs were indispensable "all-rounders" on Swiss farms. They possessed a natural instinct for guarding flocks and homesteads, moved livestock with ease, and, significantly, excelled at haulage. Farmers relied on them to pull small carts, often laden with milk churns, from pastures to dairies. Beyond their utility, the Bernese developed an "incredible temperament," making them "fantastic companions," a trait that contributes to their immense popularity as family pets today.

Pickeral shared an anecdote about former Irish President Michael D. Higgins, who frequently brought his three Bernese Mountain Dogs on diplomatic trips. Higgins viewed his dogs not only as "great icebreakers" but also as a "great source of wisdom," highlighting the profound emotional and social roles these animals play in human lives, even on the international stage.

The Yorkshire Terrier: A Product of Industrial Revolution
The discussion then shifted to the Yorkshire Terrier, a breed with a much more recent history, emerging in the 19th century. As a "Yorkshire lass," Dr. Todd was keen to learn about her regional namesake. Pickeral explained that the Yorkie’s development is intrinsically linked to the industrial boom in Northern England. During the 1800s, Scottish miners and mill workers migrated south to Yorkshire and Lancashire, bringing their small terrier breeds, such as early Skye and Clydesdale Terriers. These dogs interbred with local canines, leading to the development of the distinctive Yorkshire Terrier.

These small, plucky dogs, with their characteristic blue-grey and tan silky coats, were primarily valued for their exceptional ratting abilities. The mills and factories of the era were plagued by rat infestations, and the Yorkies proved to be incredibly efficient and fearless exterminators. Their small size was an additional advantage, allowing them to navigate the crowded industrial spaces without hindrance. By the 1870s, the breed’s concentration in Yorkshire led to its formal naming. A particularly famous Yorkie named Huddersfield Ben, a champion ratter and prolific stud dog, is considered a foundational ancestor, with his genes present in many modern Yorkies.

Pickeral also recounted the extraordinary story of Smokey, a Yorkshire Terrier found in a foxhole in Papua New Guinea in 1944 by an American serviceman. Adopted by Bill Wynn, Smokey accompanied him on combat missions, famously saving lives by pulling a communication cable through a 70-foot tunnel. Smokey is also recognized as the first recorded therapy dog, providing comfort to wounded servicemen in military hospitals. Her valor earned her numerous medals and a memorial, a testament to the unexpected heroism and versatility of the breed.

The Evolution of Appearance: Human Influence and Welfare Implications

The conversation naturally segued into the dramatic changes in dog breeds over time, often driven by human preferences. Pickeral emphasized that while "breeds were only formalized in the sort of late 19th, 20th century, when you had breed societies and the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club," distinct "types" of dogs existed much earlier. The formalization process, however, introduced specific breed standards, often prioritizing aesthetics over functional traits.

This shift has had significant implications for canine welfare. Pickeral cited the Bulldog as an example: historically, it was a "much longer in the leg, not so heavy in the frame, much more of a working, athletic dog." Modern Bulldogs, by contrast, are "much heavier, shorter in the leg, heavier in the frame, and…very much a pet dog." Similar changes are observed across many breeds. The Pomeranian, for instance, was a "quite sizable hound" in the 18th century, as depicted in Thomas Gainsborough’s "Pomeranian ***** and Puppy" (1770s). Queen Victoria, enamored with smaller Pomeranians, is largely credited with popularizing the breeding down in size of the breed to the "gorgeous, small, just balls of delicious fluff" seen today.

Dr. Todd highlighted the welfare concerns associated with some of these aesthetic changes, particularly the proliferation of brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. These breeds, such as French Bulldogs, which have become incredibly popular, often suffer from respiratory issues, dental problems, and difficulty regulating body temperature due to their altered skull structure. Pickeral explained the "baby schema" theory, which suggests that humans are instinctively drawn to features reminiscent of human infants – large, round heads, small noses, and large eyes. This subconscious attraction, Pickeral noted, is "given as one of the reasons why these types of breeds have become so popular around the world," despite the potential health challenges they face. This scientific insight into human psychology offers a compelling explanation for breeding trends that sometimes inadvertently compromise animal welfare.

The Enduring Success of Dogs: Communication and Empathy

Concluding the discussion, Kristi Benson posed a broader question: why have dogs, as a species, been so remarkably successful in coexisting with humans? Pickeral attributed this success to a combination of factors, emphasizing their "extreme canniness" and unique communicative abilities. "Very few things in the world make you feel better than a dog rushing up to you, wagging its tail and just showing extreme devotion," she articulated, highlighting the powerful emotional connection dogs forge with humans.

Dogs possess an "incredibly emotionally intuitive" nature, making them excellent therapy animals and valuable partners in medical detection and assistance roles. Their capacity to understand and respond to human emotions, often without verbal cues, is unparalleled in the animal kingdom. A fascinating evolutionary adaptation Pickeral mentioned is the development of a specific facial muscle in dogs, absent in wolves, which allows them to raise their eyebrows. This seemingly minor physiological change has significant communicative power, eliciting a strong empathetic response from humans. "When a dog raises its eyebrow at you, it’s quite a thing, it’s quite a communicative thing that people react to," Pickeral observed. This ability to communicate subtle emotions, combined with behaviors like tail wagging and direct eye contact, strengthens the human-dog bond, ensuring their continued place in human society. Their adaptability, willingness to work, and profound capacity for companionship have solidified their status as "man’s best friend."

Artistic Depiction: A Mirror to Human Perception

As an art historian, Pickeral offered unique insights into how dogs have been depicted throughout history, moving from art to photography. Early representations of dogs in art, particularly in royal and aristocratic portraits, served to reflect the status and pride of their owners. Hunting dogs, often depicted in flattering and powerful poses, symbolized wealth, skill, and nobility. Pickeral drew a parallel to equestrian art, where horses were always portrayed as "massive, great big snorting steeds," emphasizing their strength and grandeur. Dogs in these contexts were "an extension of what [people] were trying to say about themselves." Even in early Dutch paintings of interior scenes, dogs often carried symbolic meanings, acting as "a commentary on the scene that’s in the painting itself."

As societies progressed into the 18th and 19th centuries, dogs began to feature as standalone subjects in paintings, signifying a profound shift in human perception. This marked a recognition of dogs as worthy subjects in their own right, reflecting a growing appreciation for their individual personalities and companionship. The advent of photography further revolutionized canine depiction. Unlike paintings, which are "very considered" and often idealized, photographs offered a "snapshot of real life." Historic photographs, Pickeral noted, provide an "actual view of what the dog actually looked like," devoid of artistic license or the modern equivalent of Photoshop. These photographic records are invaluable for understanding the physical changes breeds have undergone due to human selective breeding, illustrating the divergence between historical types and modern breed standards.

A Literary Recommendation and Final Thoughts

The podcast concluded with Pickeral’s book recommendation, a tradition for "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation." Unexpectedly, she suggested Stephen King’s 2022 novel, Fairy Tale. While King is known for horror, Pickeral described it as a "dark fantasy" that resonated deeply due to the central role of a dog named Radar. The "beautifully crafted and beautifully written" relationship between the young protagonist, Charlie, and Radar, a main character in the book, moved her to tears. This recommendation underscores the enduring power of the human-dog bond, even in fictional narratives.

The Invention of the Dog: 75 Breeds that Changed the World by Tamsin Pickeral is available wherever books are sold. The interview provided a comprehensive and engaging overview of the book’s themes, highlighting the intricate historical, cultural, and scientific factors that have shaped the world of dogs. From ancient domestication to modern breeding practices, the discussion offered a compelling narrative of co-evolution and the profound, multifaceted relationship between humans and their most loyal companions. Listeners are encouraged to explore the book and reflect on their own "secretly loved" dog breeds, fostering a deeper appreciation for canine diversity and history.