The dog as a natural species? Or the dog as a descendant of the wolf?
The common origin of the dog story says the dog was a gray wolf that “somehow” turned into the dog after it associated with humans. In this webinar, Janice Koler-Matznick, a biologist specializing in behavior, explains it is more likely the dog and gray wolf are merely close relatives. Based on the behavior and physical structure of the dingoes and aboriginal village dogs, the most natural dogs left today, Koler-Matznick makes the case that the ancestral dog was probably a generalist scavenger and small game predator. Wolf behavior has universally been considered the only ancestral template for dog behavior, but what little is known about the ethology of free-ranging aboriginal village dogs, feral dogs, and dingoes indicates dogs are more similar to coyotes and jackals. Therefore, the wolf ancestor myth must be set aside and dog behavior investigated without preconceptions.
To be covered in this talk:
- Research supporting the case for the dog as a natural species
- Discussion around the behavior and physical structure of wild dingoes and feral village dogs
- The case behind the dog as a generalist scavenger and small game predator
- The case for set aside the myth of the dog as a descendant of the wolf
Speaker: Janice Koler-Matznick, M.S., A.C.A.A.B.
This webinar is available as a recording.
You must complete this course within 45 days of registration.
Cost: $25.00 USD
CEU’s Available:
2 IAABC CEU’s
2 CCPDT CEU’s
2 ABCDT-L2 CEU’s
2 NADOI CEU’s
2 PPAB/PPG
Members of APDT, CCPDT, IAABC, ABCDT-L2 or NADOI receive over 25% off.All Lecture Series Webinars are only $18.00 each. See instructions below on how to find the password to take part in this professional discount.
IAABC members, Click HERE to apply your discount.
Email cheryl@e-trainingfordogs for the passcode.
NADOI, CCPDT, ABCDT-L2, PPG, IACP and APDT members, click HERE to apply for your discount.
Email cheryl@e-trainingfordogs for the passcode.

Lessons in Fear and Aggression in Dogs: Science and the Art of Desensitization – Part 1


