Archaeology: General
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One of Europe's Most Ancient Domestic Dogs Lived in the Basque Country

The Basque Country, located in the western Pyrenees, is known for its unique culture and language. However, recent archaeological findings have shed light on another aspect of the region's history: its ancient domestic dogs. Researchers have discovered that one of Europe's most ancient domestic dogs lived in the Basque Country over 4,000 years ago. This finding not only provides insight into the region's past but also sheds light on the evolution of dogs and their relationship with humans.

The Discovery

The discovery was made by a team of researchers from the University of Barcelona and the University of Bordeaux. They analyzed DNA samples from dog remains found in a cave in the Basque Country. The remains were dated to between 4,200 and 4,500 years ago, making them some of the oldest dog remains found in Europe.

The Breed

The DNA analysis revealed that the ancient Basque dogs belonged to a breed known as the "Iberian dog." This breed is believed to be one of the oldest domestic dog breeds in Europe and is thought to have originated in the Iberian Peninsula over 7,000 years ago. The Iberian dog was a medium-sized breed with a short coat and a curled tail. It was likely used for hunting and herding.

The Significance

The discovery of these ancient Basque dogs is significant for several reasons. First, it provides insight into the history of dog domestication in Europe. The Iberian dog is one of the oldest known domestic dog breeds in Europe, and its presence in the Basque Country suggests that humans were already domesticating dogs in this region over 4,000 years ago.

Second, it sheds light on the relationship between humans and dogs. Dogs have been our companions for thousands of years, but we still know relatively little about their early history. The discovery of these ancient Basque dogs provides a glimpse into the early stages of this relationship and suggests that dogs were already playing an important role in human society over 4,000 years ago.

Finally, it highlights the importance of preserving archaeological sites. The remains of these ancient Basque dogs were found in a cave, and it is likely that many other important archaeological discoveries are waiting to be made in similar locations. By preserving these sites, we can continue to learn about our past and gain a better understanding of our relationship with the natural world.

Conclusion

The discovery of one of Europe's most ancient domestic dogs in the Basque Country is an exciting development for archaeologists and dog lovers alike. It provides insight into the early history of dog domestication in Europe and sheds light on the relationship between humans and dogs. It also highlights the importance of preserving archaeological sites so that we can continue to learn about our past and gain a better understanding of our place in the world.

FAQs

1. What is the Iberian dog breed?

The Iberian dog breed is one of the oldest known domestic dog breeds in Europe. It is believed to have originated in the Iberian Peninsula over 7,000 years ago.

2. What was the role of the ancient Basque dogs?

The ancient Basque dogs were likely used for hunting and herding.

3. Why is the discovery of these ancient Basque dogs significant?

The discovery provides insight into the history of dog domestication in Europe and sheds light on the relationship between humans and dogs. It also highlights the importance of preserving archaeological sites.

4. How old were the remains of the ancient Basque dogs?

The remains were dated to between 4,200 and 4,500 years ago.

5. Where were the remains of the ancient Basque dogs found?

The remains were found in a cave in the Basque Country.

 


This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

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dogs (4), ancient (3), basque (3), country (3), domestic (3)