BG 203: Dog Origin and Early History
Prerequisites: None
Course length: 6 lessons
Purpose: To provide the information needed for a critical discussion concerning the origin and development of the domestic dog.
Course Info: Using easily understood information from biology, genetics, animal behavior, and anthropology, this course invites critical examination of the support for the two most likely theories about the origin of the domestic dog. The development of distinct breeds from early generalized landraces is also discussed.
Course Dates and Times:
To be scheduled soon.
Course Cost (Register above):
For Credit: Live and OnDemand=$225
Audited:
Live=$150; OnDemand=$120
What you can expect to learn from this Course:
● The latest information on the relationship of dogs and wolves.
● Various ideas about what “domestication” means.
● Possible relationships of early dogs and humans.
● The original dog’s likely appearance and behavior.
● The definition of a “breed” and how they are developed.
Janice Koler-Matznick, MS, Assoc. CAAB, CPDT has worked with dogs professionally in various capacities for 35 years and has been researching the origin of the dog for fifteen years. In addition to 
her Masters degree in biology, Jan is professionally certified in applied animal behavior by the Certification Counsel of the Animal Behavior Society, and in dog training by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Her life-long interest in the behavior of primitive dogs and wild canids has been fulfilled in her studies of New Guinea singing dogs (Canis hallstromi), ongoing now for thirteen years. She has published scientific journal papers on the NGSD and the origin of the dog, and presented her work at several scientific conferences, including those of the I.U.C.N. Canid Specialist Group, the Animal Behavior Society, and the Western Division of the A.A.A.S. In addition, she has consulted on, and been featured in, several documentaries, including National Geographic’s The Search For The First Dog, Discover Channel’s The Ultimate Guide: Dogs, and Dogs that Changed the World for PBS.
