Dogs are genetic descendants of the gray wolf, having been domesticated through natural and artificial selection over the last 15,000 years to reach their current status as "Man's Best Friend". It's sometimes forgotten, as we dogs prance along through the halls of Westminster with our fancy haircuts, that we are just a step away from the wild wolf, that at any time we might throw off the shackles of civilization and return to our wild feral state.  With the appropriate musical accompaniment urging us on, and a surge in testosterone production from our adrenals, we might be howling at the moon tonight, hunting prey miles from home, and baring our teeth to dogs and humans that we happen to meet.  Born To Be Wild ! Looking for adventure, in whatever comes our way! A little music please.

The story of dog domestication, mirrors in many ways the tale of civilization.  Civilization has been referred to as the "taming of testosterone."  There are two main drives that testosterone supplies to the male of the species, dog or human.  One is toward procreation, the other towards aggression and competitiveness, primarily towards other males. Early hominids began to cooperate to increase their chance for survival and food supply, and as the male took his place as hunter and provider in the family structure, he had to moderate the drives that testosterone urged on him.  Wolves became inhabitors of these early camps and became valuable as watchdogs and hunting dogs. What would become a great friendship between species began and paralleled the rise of civilization.

Eventually surplus food became available due to the development of agriculture. Social cooperation eased some of the burdens on the individual and allowed him time to think great thoughts.  Mathematics, writing, art and metallurgy developed. Men began to dream of empires, and this inspired them to form massive armies and develop new weapons!  Testosterone was there with them all the way, spurring them on.  Due to genetic variation, some men were blessed (or cursed) with more than others.

Two examples of genetic variation possibly due to selective breeding. Some men were thinkers, others were men of action.  Still others became fitness and weight loss coaches.

The story of dog domestication and selective breeding continues today.  Humans have turned us into playful companions. They've edited out much of our aggressiveness, some of our curiosity, and our urge to chase every rabbit we might encounter.  What they can't manipulate through breeding they achieve through neutering.  Although testosterone is often given a bad name, let's not forget that it's also the impetus for heroic deeds, primal passion and energy, for creativity and competition.  It's all in the balance of things.  The next time you see a friendly dog, remember where he came from.  Admire his nice sweater, and his cool demeanor.  But remember, deep down inside he's ......