Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Study Reveals Ancient Dog Breed Diversity Predated Beliefs

11/16/2025

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A study published in Science finds dog breed diversity began earlier than thought, with major physical changes around 10,800 years ago and half of today’s diversity by 10,000 years ago.
Researchers examined over 600 prehistoric canine skulls and concluded timing occurs just after the last Ice Age.
The findings show early domestic dogs had diverse shapes and sizes similar to modern breeds, and researchers urge further study of influencing factors.

1 of 1

Story summary

A study published in Science finds dog breed diversity began earlier than thought, with major physical changes around 10,800 years ago and half of today’s diversity by 10,000 years ago.
Researchers examined over 600 prehistoric canine skulls and concluded timing occurs just after the last Ice Age.
The findings show early domestic dogs had diverse shapes and sizes similar to modern breeds, and researchers urge further study of influencing factors.