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Wolf's growth stages, dog types linked

The extraordinary diversity of dogs' sizes and shapes is well known, as breeds vary from tiny Chihuahua to massive Irish Wolfhound. An assessment of canine behavior reveals a considerable diversity here as well, from Siberian Huskies that love to run in harness, to Welsh Terriers that "dig" hunting for vermin underground, to Border Collies that thrive on working sheep. Where did this behavioral diversity come from if all dogs are descended from wolves? Ray Coppinger has a fascinating theory about the developmental stages of a wolf cub and how they relate to dog work styles. That's the focus of this article, one of many fine pieces at the popular Dog Owner's Guide website that helps people better understand their canine companions.

Thu, 25 Nov 1999 18:55:18 -0800

Submitted by: Barbara Petura