(InvestigateTV) — Researchers have discovered evidence that humans and dogs have been companions for thousands of years, with new findings from Alaska showing early people shared their food with canine partners about 12,000 years ago.
Anthropologists discovered remains of early doglike mammals during research digs in Alaska. The animals showed evidence of eating large amounts of salmon, according to François Lanoë, an anthropologist at the University of Arizona, whose team made the discovery.
The finding was unusual because the dogs weren’t found in areas where salmon is naturally available.
“Which in that part of Alaska suggests that people fed that salmon to the animals,” Lanoë said. “These animals were eating salmon for a big part of the year, probably relying on stored salmon, salmon that people caught in the summer and dried for use during the winter.”
Mutual benefits in ancient partnership
The dog remains date back about 12,000 years, when humans and dogs moved together with changing seasons. Researchers say the dogs helped with hunting and carrying loads while people ensured their companions were fed.
“They both got something out of it. On one hand, they got treats and on the other hand they got companionship,” Lanoë said.
The discovery provides scientific proof of a bond that has benefited both species for thousands of years.
Dog lover Niki Girrens, who owns four dogs, said the connection remains strong today.
“They love you no matter what so doesn’t matter what kind of day you’re having, you come home and I have four little butts wiggling to see me the second I walk through that door,” Girrens said. “And so it’s just like, how can they not make you feel better?”
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date: 2026-02-13 15:08:00