Dogs

Dogs

Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and Humans (Homo sapiens): A Co-Evolutionary Journey

The domestic dog, Canis lupus familiaris, has evolved alongside humans for millennia, with their shared history dating back to prehistoric times.

The co-evolutionary relationship between dogs and humans is a complex and diverse area of study. Over the course of thousands of years, these two species have forged a unique bond that has influenced not only their physical traits, but also their behaviours and social dynamics. The process of co-evolution refers to the mutual influence that two or more species have on one another's evolutionary trajectory, leading to adaptations that enhance their ability to thrive in a shared environment (Thompson, 2013).

The domestication of dogs is thought to have begun approximately 20,000 to 40,000 years ago (Perri, 2016), though the exact timeline remains the subject of debate among researchers. Early interactions between humans and wolves (Canis lupus) likely centred on the mutual benefits that each species could offer the other. For example, humans may have utilised wolves' superior hunting abilities, while wolves may have benefited from the protection and food resources offered by humans (Coppinger & Coppinger, 2001). Over time, the wolves that were better adapted to living in close proximity to humans would have been more likely to survive and reproduce, eventually giving rise to the domesticated dog (Larson & Fuller, 2014).

The process of domestication has led to numerous genetic and morphological changes in dogs. In comparison to their wolf ancestors, domestic dogs display a wide range of phenotypic variation, including differences in size, coat colour, and skull shape (Parker et al., 2017). These changes can be attributed to both natural and artificial selection pressures, as humans selectively bred dogs for specific traits that were deemed desirable, such as size or temperament (Wayne & vonHoldt, 2012).

Behavioural adaptations have also played a crucial role in the co-evolutionary relationship between dogs and humans. Over time, dogs have developed an innate ability to interpret human social cues, such as facial expressions and body language (Hare et al., 2002). This ability has facilitated the development of a cooperative relationship between the two species and has likely been a key factor in the success of dogs as human companions (Miklósi, 2015).

Dogs in Literature

Dogs have played a crucial role in human history, and their importance has been mirrored in the realm of literature, where they have been depicted in various capacities, from loyal companions to fierce protectors. The following is a selection of literary classics that feature dogs in prominent roles, demonstrating the versatility and significance of canine characters in enriching the narrative and offering insights into human nature.

The Call of the Wild (1903) by Jack London: Jack London's iconic novel, The Call of the Wild, follows the journey of Buck, a domesticated dog who is stolen from his comfortable Californian home and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog. The novel explores themes of survival, adaptability, and the inherent wildness within both humans and animals, as Buck's experiences force him to tap into his primordial instincts to survive the harsh wilderness.

White Fang (1906) by Jack London: Another classic by Jack London, White Fang is often considered a companion novel to The Call of the Wild. It tells the story of a wild wolfdog's journey towards domestication, as he encounters both cruelty and kindness from various human characters. The novel delves into themes of nature versus nurture, redemption, and the transformative power of love.

Of Mice and Men (1937) by John Steinbeck: In John Steinbeck's renowned novella Of Mice and Men, Candy's old dog serves as a significant symbol in the narrative. Although not a primary character, the dog's presence in the story foreshadows the tragic fate of Lennie and highlights the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression, where the weak and infirm were often discarded in favour of the strong and able-bodied.

Old Yeller (1956) by Fred Gipson: Fred Gipson's Old Yeller is a beloved coming-of-age tale about a young boy named Travis and a stray dog he befriends in post-Civil War Texas. The titular character, Old Yeller, is a loyal and courageous dog who protects and bonds with Travis and his family. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, as Travis is forced to confront the harsh realities of life and make difficult decisions.

Lassie Come-Home (1940) by Eric Knight: Eric Knight's novel Lassie Come-Home tells the heartwarming story of a collie named Lassie who embarks on an arduous journey to reunite with her family after being sold during the Great Depression. The novel explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the unwavering bond between humans and their pets, as Lassie's determination to return home demonstrates the depth of her devotion to her family.

The Hound of the Baskervilles (1902) by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The Hound of the Baskervilles, the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes investigates the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, purportedly caused by a supernatural hound. The eponymous hound serves as both a symbol of fear and a narrative device that drives the plot, highlighting the potential for dogs to serve as pivotal figures in literary works.

The Incredible Journey (1961) by Sheila Burnford: Sheila Burnford's The Incredible Journey narrates the harrowing adventure of three pets – a Labrador Retriever named Luath, a Bull Terrier named Bodger, and a Siamese cat named Tao – as they traverse the Canadian wilderness in search of their owners. The novel underscores the resilience, loyalty, and intelligence of dogs (and pets in general), as the characters work together to overcome various obstacles and challenges.

Cujo (1981) by Stephen King: Stephen King's horror novel Cujo revolves around a previously friendly St. Bernard that becomes rabid after being bitten by a bat, transforming into a violent and dangerous creature. The novel delves into themes of fear, loss of control, and the fine line between domestication and wildness, illustrating the darker side of canine characters in literature.

In Religion

Anubis (Ancient Egyptian Religion): Anubis, the jackal-headed god of the afterlife and mummification, is one of the most well-known canine deities in ancient Egyptian religion. Often depicted as a man with the head of a jackal, Anubis played a crucial role in the process of mummification and the weighing of the heart ceremony, which determined an individual's worthiness for the afterlife. The choice of a jackal as Anubis's animal form is thought to be inspired by the scavenging behaviour of jackals in the Egyptian desert, symbolising their connection to death and the afterlife (Dunand & Zivie-Coche, 2004).

Xolotl (Aztec Mythology): In Aztec mythology, Xolotl is a dog-like deity associated with lightning, fire, and the underworld. Often depicted with the body of a man and the head of a dog, Xolotl serves as the guide for the souls of the deceased as they journey through the underworld (Read & Gonzalez, 2000). Xolotl's connection to dogs is further exemplified by his association with the Xoloitzcuintli, a hairless dog breed native to Mexico that was believed to have protective and healing properties (Clendinnen, 1991).

Cerberus (Greek Mythology): Cerberus, the multi-headed hound of Hades, is a prominent figure in Greek mythology. Tasked with guarding the entrance to the underworld, Cerberus prevents the living from entering and the dead from escaping. As a ferocious and loyal guardian, Cerberus embodies the protective qualities often associated with dogs, albeit in a more monstrous form (Graves, 2017).

The Black Dog (British Folklore): The Black Dog is a recurring motif in British folklore, often described as a large, menacing, black-coated canine with glowing red or green eyes. Associated with death, misfortune, and the supernatural, these spectral hounds are thought to haunt crossroads, graveyards, and other liminal spaces (Trubshaw, 2005). The Black Dog serves as an example of the darker, more ominous symbolism that dogs can embody in religious and mythological contexts.

In the Bible

In the Abrahamic religions, dogs are generally portrayed as "unclean."

The following examples highlight some notable instances of dogs in the Bible, illustrating their symbolic associations and significance.

1 Samuel 17:43: In the well-known story of David and Goliath, the Philistine giant Goliath taunts David, saying, "Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?" In this context, the reference to a dog implies a sense of disdain and disrespect, as Goliath perceives David's challenge as an insult to his stature and strength.

2 Kings 9:10: In the story of Jezebel, the queen of Israel, the prophecy of her demise states that her body will be consumed by dogs. This gruesome image emphasises the severity of her transgressions and the divine retribution she will face. The role of the dogs in this passage highlights their associations with scavenging and uncleanliness, as they are destined to consume the remains of the fallen queen.

Psalm 22:16: In Psalm 22, David laments his suffering and persecution, describing his enemies as dogs who surround and attack him. The metaphor of dogs in this context underscores the ferocity and relentlessness of his adversaries, emphasising the danger and distress David experiences.

Matthew 7:6: In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of dogs to caution his followers against sharing sacred teachings with those who may not appreciate or understand them. He states, "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs." In this context, dogs are associated with a lack of discernment and spiritual understanding, serving as a warning to be discerning in sharing sacred wisdom.

Revelation 22:15: In the Book of Revelation, dogs are listed among the various impure and sinful beings that are excluded from the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city described in the vision of John. The inclusion of dogs in this list emphasises their symbolic associations with uncleanliness and sinfulness in the biblical context.

In the Koran

Al-Kahf (The Cave) 18:18, 18:22: In Surah Al-Kahf, the Quran recounts the story of the Companions of the Cave (Ashab al-Kahf), a group of believers who sought refuge from persecution in a cave. The dog that accompanied them is mentioned in verses 18:18 and 18:22, where it is described as lying at the entrance of the cave. The dog in this context is seen as a loyal companion and protector, guarding the believers during their miraculous slumber, which lasted for centuries. Some Islamic scholars argue that the presence of the dog in this story serves to challenge the widespread negative perception of dogs in the Arabian culture at the time.

The perception of dogs in Islamic tradition is multifaceted, influenced by cultural, historical, and religious factors. The Quran's limited references to dogs necessitate a broader exploration of hadiths and scholarly interpretations to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the role and perception of dogs within Islamic thought. The following examples delve into the complexities of the portrayal of dogs in Islamic tradition, illustrating the diverse perspectives on their nature and significance.

Hadith on Dogs and Ritual Purity: In various hadiths, dogs are often associated with ritual impurity (najasah). One such hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, states that if a dog drinks from a container, it should be washed seven times before being used by a Muslim (Sahih Muslim, Book 2, Hadith 74). This association with impurity has led to the widespread belief that Muslims should avoid contact with dogs, particularly saliva, as it might compromise their ritual purity.

Hadith on Kindness to Animals: Despite the association with impurity, other hadiths emphasise the importance of kindness and compassion towards animals, including dogs. One such hadith, narrated by Abdullah ibn Umar, tells of a woman who was punished for imprisoning a cat and not providing it with food and water, while another woman was forgiven her sins for giving water to a thirsty dog (Sahih Bukhari, Book 78, Hadith 38). These hadiths suggest that the Islamic tradition values kindness and compassion towards all living creatures, including dogs.

Scholarly Interpretations: Islamic scholars have differing opinions on the role and perception of dogs in Islamic tradition. While some scholars maintain that dogs are unclean and should be avoided, others argue that the Quran and hadiths do not universally condemn dogs. They point to the story of the Companions of the Cave and their loyal dog as evidence of the positive qualities attributed to dogs in the Quran, as well as the hadiths that emphasise kindness and compassion towards animals. These scholars argue for a more nuanced understanding of the role and perception of dogs in Islamic tradition, taking into account the broader context of the texts and the principles of mercy and compassion inherent in Islam.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease caused by the rabies virus, a member of the Lyssavirus genus within the family Rhabdoviridae. The disease affects the central nervous system of mammals, resulting in progressive encephalitis that nearly always leads to death. The primary mode of transmission of rabies is through the bite of an infected animal, with dogs being the most common source of human infections globally.

Transmission by Dogs: Rabies is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected dog. The virus is present in the saliva of infected animals and enters the victim's body through the bite wound or mucous membranes. Once inside the body, the virus travels through the peripheral nerves to the central nervous system, where it replicates and causes severe neurological symptoms. In some cases, rabies can also be transmitted through non-bite exposures, such as scratches or contact with infected saliva, but these occurrences are rare.

Epidemiology: Rabies is a global public health concern, with over 59,000 human deaths reported annually, mainly in Africa and Asia. It is estimated that 99% of these cases result from dog bites. Rabies is endemic in many countries, particularly in regions with large populations of stray dogs and inadequate vaccination programmes. Children are at a higher risk of contracting the disease due to their increased likelihood of interacting with dogs and their reduced ability to recognise the risk posed by an infected animal.

Prevention and Control: Vaccination is the most effective method for controlling rabies in dogs and preventing human infections. Mass vaccination campaigns targeting dogs can significantly reduce the incidence of rabies in both canine and human populations. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that at least 70% of the dog population should be vaccinated to achieve effective control of the disease.

In addition to canine vaccination, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is essential for individuals who have been bitten or otherwise exposed to a potentially rabid animal. PEP involves administering a series of rabies vaccinations to the exposed individual, which can prevent the development of the disease if initiated promptly after exposure.

Public education and awareness campaigns are also crucial in preventing rabies transmission. These campaigns aim to educate communities about the risks associated with rabies, how to avoid contact with potentially infected animals, and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention following potential exposure.

The Fool Tarot Card

The Fool is one of the 78 cards in a Tarot deck and is usually numbered as 0 or unnumbered, representing the beginning of a journey. The dog in the Fool Tarot trump is an essential character within the card's symbolism, reflecting the theme of innocence, spontaneity, and trust.

The dog appears alongside the main figure, who is often depicted as a youthful traveller or vagabond, carrying a small bundle and standing at the edge of a cliff. The dog is shown either playfully jumping around the Fool or attempting to warn him of the impending danger of falling off the cliff.

In the context of the Fool Tarot card, the dog can be interpreted in various ways:

Guidance and protection: The dog can symbolise a loyal companion or guardian, helping the Fool on his journey and offering support during challenging times.

Instinct and intuition: The dog's presence may signify the importance of trusting one's instincts, especially when embarking on new adventures. The dog reminds the Fool to pay attention to his inner voice and natural instincts.

Playfulness and spontaneity: The dog's playful nature highlights the Fool's carefree spirit and zest for life. It serves as a reminder to embrace spontaneity and take risks without fear.

Unconditional love: Dogs are often associated with unconditional love and loyalty. In the Fool Tarot card, the dog might represent the Fool's ability to love and trust unconditionally, which can be both a strength and a weakness in different situations.

Idioms

Barking up the wrong tree: Accusing or pursuing the wrong person or thing; being mistaken or misguided in one's efforts.

Let sleeping dogs lie: Avoiding stirring up old conflicts or problems by not interfering with a situation.

Every dog has its day: Everyone will have a moment of success, recognition, or good fortune at some point in their lives.

In the doghouse: In trouble or disfavour with someone, usually as a result of doing something wrong or upsetting them.

Raining cats and dogs: Raining heavily, or experiencing torrential rainfall.

A dog's dinner: A mess, or a situation that is disorganised and chaotic.

A dog's life: A difficult or unhappy life, characterised by hardship and struggle.

A barking dog seldom bites: People who constantly threaten others or make a lot of noise are often not as harmful as they seem.

A dog and pony show: An elaborate display or presentation, often designed to impress or deceive others.

To put on the dog: To behave in a showy or ostentatious manner, often in an attempt to impress others.

Hair of the dog: Consuming alcohol as a remedy for a hangover, based on the idea that a small amount of what caused the problem can help alleviate the symptoms.

Tail wagging the dog: A situation where a small or unimportant part is controlling or influencing the whole, or a minor issue dominates a larger one.

The dog that didn't bark: An event or situation that is conspicuous by its absence, usually indicating that something unusual or unexpected has occurred.

One's bark is worse than one's bite: A person who appears threatening or aggressive but is actually harmless or gentle.

Gone to the dogs: Deteriorated in quality, condition, or character; having become much worse than before.

Dog-eat-dog world: A competitive and ruthless environment where people are willing to harm or exploit others for their own gain.

Dog in the manger: A person who prevents others from enjoying something they have no use for themselves, acting out of spite or selfishness.

Dog's breakfast: A mess or a chaotic and disorganised situation, similar to "a dog's dinner."

Can't teach an old dog new tricks: The idea that it is difficult or impossible for someone, especially an older person, to change their habits or learn new skills.

Throw someone to the dogs: To abandon or sacrifice someone to their enemies or to an unpleasant situation, often as a scapegoat.

You can't keep a good dog down: A capable or resilient person will eventually recover and succeed, despite any setbacks or obstacles they face.

If you lie down with dogs, you get up with fleas: Associating with bad company can have negative consequences, as their behaviour may rub off on you.

Like a dog with a bone: A person who is determined and persistent, unwilling to give up on a particular issue or task.

Dogs of war: Mercenaries or soldiers who are hired to fight in conflicts, often referring to those who fight solely for personal gain or profit.

A shaggy dog story: A long, rambling story or joke with an intentionally anticlimactic or pointless ending, often meant to entertain or amuse.

Three-dog night: A very cold night, derived from the practice of using dogs for warmth by sleeping close to them; the colder the night, the more dogs needed for warmth.

Like herding cats: A difficult or impossible task, similar to trying to control or organise something inherently uncontrollable, like attempting to herd dogs.

Dog-whistle politics: The use of coded language, messages, or phrases that are intended to appeal to a specific group or demographic without overtly stating the intended message.

A dog's chance: A very slim or unlikely chance of success, indicating that the odds are not favourable.

Curiosity killed the dog: A warning against being too inquisitive or nosy, as it may lead to trouble or harm; a variation of the more common phrase, "Curiosity killed the cat."

A dog on a lead: A person who is controlled or restrained, often by someone with more power or authority.

Fight like cat and dog: To argue or fight fiercely and frequently, typically referring to people who are constantly at odds with each other.

Take the dog for a walk: A euphemism for taking a break or getting away from a situation, often used when one needs some time alone or a moment of respite.

Sick as a dog: Feeling very unwell or experiencing severe illness or discomfort, often used to describe intense symptoms or feelings of nausea.

The black dog: A metaphor for depression or a persistent feeling of sadness, often used to describe someone's struggle with mental health issues.

Homophones

Paws/Pause: Paws are the feet of animals like dogs, while pause means to temporarily stop or interrupt an action.

Bark/Barque: Bark is the sound a dog makes, while barque is a type of sailing ship with three or more masts.

Leash/Lease: A leash is a strap or cord used to restrain and control a dog, while a lease is a contract granting the use or occupation of property for a specified period.

Muzzle/Nuzzle: A muzzle is a device placed over a dog's snout to prevent it from biting or eating, while nuzzle means to gently push or rub one's nose against someone or something, often as a sign of affection.

Whine/Wine: Whine is a high-pitched, complaining sound often made by dogs, while wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes.

Flea/Flee: A flea is a small, wingless insect that feeds on the blood of mammals and birds, often infesting dogs; flee means to run away from danger or an undesirable situation.

Collar/Caller: A collar is a band worn around a dog's neck, often for identification or restraint, while a caller is someone who makes a phone call or visits someone's home.

Heel/Heal: Heel is a command used to make a dog walk close to its handler's leg, while heal means to become healthy or whole again after an injury or illness.

Litter/Litre: Litter refers to a group of puppies born to the same mother, while litre is a unit of volume in the metric system.