Is your pet's evolution a 'paw-sitive' surprise?

Find out what you've been missing

- TERRY VAN DER WALT

EVER notice how your pet dog has got you taped, knows how to get its way with those uber-cute approaches and dreamy expressions?

Perhaps you've even pondered whether your faithful furbaby is taking you for a ride with its manipulative prompts, side-eyes and pitiful glances at the door, telling you it wants to go for a W.A.L.K?

Well, according to scientists, this is because canines are continuing to evolve to take on the ever-changing demands placed on them as man’s best friend. They suggest that our canine companions are evolving in real-time right in front of our very eyes.

We all know that today’s domesticated dogs are quite different from the wild wolves that first ventured into human settlements, where they were ultimately used to hunt, guard our homes and livestock, and even retrieve geese that their owners have shot down from the sky.

But today’s modern household dogs have pivoted over time, acquiring new skills, intelligence and behaviours that make their existence - and that of their human - way more fun, rewarding and nurturing for all concerned.

Gone are the days when dogs slept outside, come rain or shine, where their role was primarily to guard the family. Today, many live pampered lives in close proximity to the entire family, where it has become increasingly important for everyone to be tuned into each other - humans and canines.