Discovery and Dating
Recent research led by the and involving the University of Alaska Fairbanks has pushed back the timeline of human-canid relationships in the to 12,000 years ago, based on archaeological findings in Alaska.
The evidence includes a tibia from an adult canine found at Swan Point and a jawbone from Hollembaek Hill, both showing signs of early domestication and a diet rich in salmon, indicating human dependence.
Cultural and Scientific Impact
This study challenges previous notions of dog domestication in the Americas, suggesting a complex relationship between early humans and canids that may not directly link to modern dog breeds.
It highlights the importance of collaboration with indigenous communities, such as the Mendas Cha'ag people, in conducting archaeological research, underscoring a long-standing partnership in the .