Page 31 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

PRIMITIVE DOGS

PRIMITIVE

DOGS

Many modern dog breeds are the result of hundreds of years of breeding for particular
characteristics, but a few, commonly regarded as primitive dogs, have remained close to the

original “blueprint” of their wolf ancestors. As a group, primitive dogs are not clearly defined,
and not all authorities agree that such a category should be recognized.

As variously listed, primitive dogs include the Carolina Dog (see p.35) Other examples are hairless dogs
are a diverse group, but many of of North America and the rare New from Mexico and South America,
them share typically wolflike Guinea Singing Dog (see p.32), which genetic mutations of coated breeds
characteristics. These include erect is genetically very close to the dingo that resemble dogs depicted in the art
ears, a wedge-shaped head with a of Australia. Such dogs have evolved and artifacts of ancient civilizations.
pointed muzzle, and a tendency to naturally rather than through breeding Recent genetic investigations suggest
howl rather than bark. Their coats for temperament or appearance and that two dogs included in this section—
are usually short but vary in color and cannot be considered completely the Pharaoh Hound (see p.32) and the
density according to the region from domesticated. The New Guinea Ibizan Hound (see p.33)—should no
which the dog originates. Most Singing Dog, which is on the verge longer be considered primitive. These
primitive dogs come into season only of extinction, is more likely to be breeds are popularly supposed to be
once a year, unlike other domestic seen in zoos than in homes. the direct descendants of big-eared
dogs, which have two cycles of Several dogs are included in Egyptian hounds pictured in drawings
estrus a year. the primitive group because they dating back 3,000 years. However,
Canine specialists are now taking are believed to be uninfluenced there is genetic evidence that the line
an interest in dogs that have had little by any other types over thousands of descent may not have remained
to do with humans and nothing to do of years. Among them is the Basenji unbroken down the centuries. It is
with breed development programs. (see p.30) from Africa, long used probable that the Pharaoh and Ibizan
These primitive dogs, which come for hunting in its native country Hounds are in fact modern re-creations
from various parts of the world, before becoming a popular pet. of ancient breeds.

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