Divergence of Dogs from Wolf Populations

Genetic and archaeological evidence indicates wolves began diverging into domestic dogs between 40,000 and 15,000 years ago, with the domestication process intensifying around 23,000 years ago during the Last Glacial Maximum. The geographic origin remains contested, with candidates including Siberia, East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Wolves with reduced flight responses likely self-selected for proximity to human camps. The Bonn-Oberkassel burial in Germany, dating to approximately 14,200 years ago, documents a sick puppy cared for by humans, evidencing emotional bonds between species.