Dogs have been man’s best friend for hundreds of years. They were one of the first animals domesticated by humans and have remained life long companions since then. It is unknown who domesticated them them first but now every human benefits from dogs even if they don’t directly own one as dogs have helped humanity in the past. We have no idea who exactly domesticated dogs but it is thought that the people in Northern Siberia first domesticated them. They were never really domesticated for a purpose but over time became useful for many things such as hunting, hauling, and companionship. Over time dogs have developed more expressive facial features to communicate better with humans. Most modern dogs have more eyebrows compared to modern wolves and wolves ancestors.

The need for dogs has changed over time. Originally they were mostly used for hunting and hauling however today they are mostly used for companionship and are in high demand especially during lonely times of isolation. For example when Covid started shelters experienced shortages of animals as people need a companion during these isolating times. Dogs have different meanings in different cultures. In Europe dogs like the Poodle were used for hunting while in other places such as in Mexico the Aztecs used Chihuahuas as livestock animals similar to how we use cows.

Dogs are everywhere and are imbedded in our culture. Everyone knows the saying “Dog are man’s best friend”. Dogs can also stereotype their owners. For example Poodles today are seen as a dog that wealthier people would own while a Pitbull owner may be seen as rough and mean.

Dogs are a civic artifact because they give humans a sense of responsibility to that animal. Many dog owners will say that they love their dog and most likely do love their dogs. They also want to take their dogs places and as seen by the growing number of places in large cities that allow dogs. Having a dog opens up other communal activities too, such as obedience classes, dog competitions, and just being more involved with family. I was very closed off to my family until we got a dog and then we all had reasons to go on walks together and go to the park. Dogs have represented and helped many people throughout the years and continue to be one of our closest companions.