Print this page Dogs throughout History: From Prehistory to Modern Times

Dogs have shared human lives longer than any other animal. This course explores the history of dogs from early domestication to their roles as workers, companions and cultural symbols. We examine how dogs have appeared in myth, art and everyday life, and how changing human societies shaped our enduring bond with them. Ideal for animal lovers and anyone curious about the deep history of human–dog relationships.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face / Online

COURSE OUTLINE

• Introduction: Humans and dogs - an enduring bond
• Prehistoric domestication of dogs: theories and evidence
• Dogs in ancient civilizations: Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome
• Medieval dogs: hunting, guarding, and companionship
• Dogs in mythology, symbolism, and religion across cultures
• Working dogs through history: herding, hunting, and service roles
• The rise of dog breeds and selective breeding
• Transition from working animal to companion animal in modern society
• Dogs in contemporary culture: pets, therapy, and social roles
• Reflections on the evolving human-dog relationship

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand key theories surrounding the domestication of dogs
2. Identify the roles and functions of dogs in ancient, medieval, and historical societies
3. Explore the presence of dogs in mythology, symbolism, and belief systems across cultures
4. Trace the evolution of dogs’ roles from working animals to modern companions