A recent episode of "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation" podcast featured an in-depth discussion with Tamsin Pickeral, acclaimed author of The Invention of the Dog: 75 Breeds that Changed the World. The conversation, hosted by Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson, delved into the fascinating origins, evolutionary journey, and enduring success of domestic dog breeds, offering a compelling blend of art history, scientific theory, and captivating anecdotes. Pickeral’s work provides a meticulously researched and lavishly illustrated account of how humanity’s oldest companion has been shaped by diverse cultures, geographical landscapes, and human needs over millennia. The Genesis of Canine Diversity: A Historical Perspective The journey of the dog, Canis familiaris, is an extraordinary tale of co-evolution spanning tens of thousands of years. Scientific consensus suggests that dogs diverged from wolves (specifically, a now-extinct wolf lineage) between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago, during the late Pleistocene epoch, an era characterized by vast ice sheets and the presence of early humans, including Neanderthals. The precise mechanism of this domestication remains a subject of ongoing research, but two primary theories prevail. One posits that early humans actively sought out and tamed wolf pups, selectively breeding them for desirable traits. The second, and increasingly favored, theory suggests a process of "self-domestication," where certain wolves, possessing genes for extreme sociability, were drawn to human settlements, scavenging on refuse and gradually adapting to a less fearful existence alongside humans. This interaction would have inadvertently favored individuals less wary of humans, leading to a symbiotic relationship. A pivotal moment in canine evolution, as highlighted by Pickeral, occurred approximately 10,000 years ago with the advent of the agricultural revolution. As Homo sapiens transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled agrarian communities, new roles emerged for dogs. No longer solely companions for the hunt, dogs became indispensable for guarding homes and livestock, herding animals, and even pulling carts. This diversification of function spurred deliberate selective breeding. Early humans observed and capitalized on innate tendencies—some dogs were naturally more protective, others more adept at herding without harming livestock, and some excelled in hunting specific types of prey. This targeted breeding, initially informal, laid the groundwork for the vast array of specialized "dog types" that would eventually solidify into distinct breeds. As ancient trade routes expanded, connecting disparate regions of the world, different dog populations intermingled, further enriching the canine gene pool and accelerating the development of new forms and functions. "The Invention of the Dog": A Deep Dive into Breed Histories Tamsin Pickeral, an animal specialist and art historian, brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to her latest book. The Invention of the Dog is not a conventional breed guide detailing weights or exercise requirements; rather, it is a celebratory exploration of canine history through the lens of 75 breeds that have significantly influenced human civilization. The book is lauded for its captivating narrative, emotional depth, and particularly, its lavish illustrations, which include historical artworks and photographs depicting dogs across various epochs. Case Study: The Royal Shih Tzu The Shih Tzu, a breed beloved for its vivacious personality and flowing coat, boasts an illustrious history tracing back to ancient China. Its presence is documented as early as the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), appearing in artworks of the period. However, its true origins are believed to lie even further back, with Buddhist monks in Lhasa, Tibet. These monks, renowned for their breeding efforts, developed small, long-haired dogs, strikingly similar to the modern Shih Tzu and its close relative, the Lhasa Apso. These "lion dogs"—a powerful symbol of strength and courage in Buddhism—were often gifted to Chinese emperors. Over centuries, particularly from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) onwards, and flourishing during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), these imperial dogs developed distinct characteristics within the royal palaces of China. The Empress Dowager Cixi (1835-1908) was a prominent patron, actively breeding early Pugs, Pekingese, and Shih Tzus. Her death in 1908, coupled with subsequent political upheaval, led to a period of devastating decline for these imperial breeds. Fortunately, some individuals survived, notably two Shih Tzus brought to England by Lady Brownrigg, initiating the breed’s global re-establishment and formal recognition in the early 20th century. Case Study: The Versatile Bernese Mountain Dog In stark contrast to the diminutive Shih Tzu, the Bernese Mountain Dog hails from the rugged landscapes of central-west Switzerland, specifically the Bern region, from which it derives its name. Its ancestry stretches back approximately 2,000 years, coinciding with the Roman Empire’s expansion into Switzerland. The Romans brought with them various dog types, including large mastiff-like canines, which are considered foundational to the Bernese. Over centuries, these dogs adapted to the demanding life on Swiss dairy farms, becoming invaluable multi-purpose working dogs. They are recognized as one of four Swiss dairy farm breeds, alongside the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Appenzeller Sennenhund, and Entlebucher Sennenhund. Bernese Mountain Dogs excelled at guarding flocks and homesteads, moving livestock, and crucially, as haulage dogs, pulling small carts laden with milk churns. Beyond their utility, their gentle and affectionate temperament made them exceptional companions, a quality that continues to drive their popularity as pets today. A notable example of their companionship can be seen in former Irish President Michael D. Higgins, who frequently brought his three Bernese Mountain Dogs on diplomatic engagements, citing their ability to act as "icebreakers" and, remarkably, as a "source of wisdom." Case Study: The Industrious Yorkshire Terrier The Yorkshire Terrier, or "Yorkie," represents a much younger breed, its development firmly rooted in the 19th century industrial landscape of Northern England. Its emergence is linked to the migration of Scottish miners and mill workers to Yorkshire and Lancashire, who brought with them various terrier types, including early Skye Terriers and the now-unrecognized Clydesdale Terriers. These dogs interbred with local terriers, giving rise to the distinctive Yorkshire Terrier by the 1870s. The breed quickly gained renown for its striking blue-grey and tan silky coat, but more importantly, for its exceptional ratting prowess. In the crowded and often vermin-infested mills of the era, these small yet fearless terriers were indispensable for controlling rat populations. Their compact size allowed them to navigate tight spaces, making them highly efficient and admired working dogs. Huddersfield Ben, a famous Yorkie from the 1870s, epitomized the breed’s qualities, celebrated as both a champion ratter and a prolific stud, whose genetic legacy is evident in many modern Yorkies. Beyond its working origins, the Yorkie has also demonstrated remarkable heroism. The story of Smokey, a tiny Yorkshire Terrier found in a foxhole in Papua New Guinea in 1944 by an American serviceman, stands as a testament to the breed’s courage and adaptability. Adopted by Corporal Bill Wynn, Smokey accompanied him on numerous combat missions, even saving lives by pulling a crucial communication cable through a 70-foot tunnel under an airfield runway. Smokey is also recognized as one of the world’s first recorded therapy dogs, visiting military hospitals to comfort wounded servicemen. Her extraordinary contributions earned her multiple medals and a lasting memorial, inspiring books and solidifying her place in canine history. The Evolving Canine Physique: From Past to Present The formalization of dog breeds in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by the establishment of kennel clubs and breed societies worldwide (such as the Kennel Club in the UK and the American Kennel Club), marked a significant shift. Prior to this, dogs were largely categorized by "type" based on their function rather than strict aesthetic standards. Pickeral’s work vividly illustrates how selective breeding, often focused on specific physical traits, has dramatically altered the appearance of many breeds over time. For instance, the Pomeranian, now known for its diminutive size and fluffy coat, was a considerably larger dog in the 18th century, as depicted in paintings like Thomas Gainsborough’s "Pomeranian Bitch and Puppy" from the 1770s. Queen Victoria’s preference for smaller dogs is often credited with influencing the breeding down of the Pomeranian to its current toy size. Similarly, the Bulldog, historically an athletic, longer-legged working dog, has been selectively bred into its modern, heavier-set, brachycephalic (flat-faced) form, primarily as a companion animal. This trend of emphasizing specific physical attributes, particularly in brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs (now among the most popular breeds globally), has sparked considerable discussion and concern regarding animal welfare. The "baby schema" theory suggests that humans are instinctively drawn to features resembling human infants—large, round heads, small noses, and large eyes—which are characteristic of many flat-faced breeds. This innate attraction, however, has inadvertently led to health challenges, including respiratory issues, in some of these breeds due to exaggerated facial structures. Pickeral’s book, through its historical imagery, provides a powerful visual chronology of these morphological changes, inviting reflection on the responsibilities inherent in human-directed breeding. Unpacking Canine Success: Communication and Intuition The enduring success of dogs as human companions, extending beyond their utilitarian roles, lies in their remarkable ability to connect with humans on an emotional level. Pickeral emphasizes that dogs are exceptionally "canny" and possess profound emotional intelligence. Their communicative skills are highly sophisticated, ranging from overt displays like tail wagging to subtle cues. A fascinating example of this co-evolution is the development of a specific facial muscle in dogs, absent in wolves, which allows them to raise their eyebrows. This action, often interpreted by humans as an expression of sadness or empathy, is a powerful communicative gesture that elicits a strong human response. Dogs’ intuitive nature makes them invaluable in roles such as therapy animals, where their presence can significantly alleviate stress and provide comfort. Their keen senses and cognitive abilities are also harnessed in specialized fields like medical detection, where they can identify subtle scent markers associated with diseases. This profound emotional and communicative bond, a result of thousands of years of shared existence, is arguably the cornerstone of the dog’s unparalleled success and enduring place in the human heart. Author’s Insights and Recommendations Tamsin Pickeral’s background as both an animal specialist and an art historian is central to The Invention of the Dog. The book’s visual richness is a testament to her expertise, featuring a curated selection of artworks and historic photographs. Pickeral reveals that one of her favorite images from the book is Sir Edwin Landseer’s painting, "Eos," depicting Prince Albert’s beloved greyhound. Landseer, a prominent Victorian painter renowned for his animal subjects, captured Eos with a dignity and realism that transcends mere portraiture. Pickeral notes the distinction between artistic depictions, which often carried symbolic messages or flattered the subject, and historical photographs, which offer a more unvarnished "snapshot of real life," revealing the actual appearance of dogs before breed standards became rigidly formalized. Beyond her own work, Pickeral recommended Stephen King’s "Fairy Tale" as a recent literary enjoyment. Describing it as a dark fantasy, she praised the beautifully crafted relationship between the protagonist, Charlie, and his dog, Radar, highlighting its emotional resonance. Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy The Invention of the Dog: 75 Breeds that Changed the World offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the intricate relationship between humans and dogs. From the earliest instances of domestication to the deliberate shaping of modern breeds, Tamsin Pickeral’s work underscores the profound impact dogs have had on human history and culture, and vice versa. It serves as a compelling reminder of the dynamic evolution of canine companions and the enduring, multifaceted bond that continues to define their existence alongside humanity. The book is currently available wherever books are sold, and further information on Tamsin Pickeral’s work can be found on her website, tamsinpickeral.com. The conversation concluded with an invitation for listeners to reflect on their own "secretly loved" dog breeds, underscoring the universal affection and curiosity surrounding these remarkable animals. Post navigation Being Positive About Positive Reinforcement (The Pawsitive Post) The complimentary online Doodle summit with experts on dog behaviour.
