Who was domesticated after the dog? - briefly
The first species to be domesticated after the dog was likely the sheep, around 9000 BC in Mesopotamia. This was followed by the domestication of goats and cattle, around the same time period.
Who was domesticated after the dog? - in detail
The process of animal domestication is one of the most significant developments in human history, transforming both our societies and the animals themselves. While the dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is widely recognized as the first species to be domesticated, there is considerable debate surrounding which animal was next in line.
One of the earliest candidates for post-canine domestication is the goat (Capra aegagrus hircus). Archaeological evidence suggests that goats were being domesticated as early as 9000 BCE, primarily in the Fertile Crescent region of Western Asia. Goats provided an essential source of milk, meat, and fiber, contributing significantly to the development of early agricultural societies. Their adaptability to various environments also made them a valuable resource for nomadic pastoralists.
Another prominent contender is the pig (Sus scrofa domesticus). Pigs were domesticated around 8500 BCE in both the Fertile Crescent and China, independently of each other. Pigs offered a high yield of meat and were relatively easy to raise, making them an attractive choice for early farmers. They also played a crucial role in early agriculture by helping to clear forested land for cultivation.
Sheep (Ovis aries) are another species that was domesticated shortly after dogs. Evidence from archaeological sites in the Middle East and Central Asia indicates that sheep were being domesticated around 8000 BCE. Sheep provided wool, meat, and milk, which were vital for the textile industry and sustenance of early civilizations. Their ability to thrive in diverse climates further enhanced their value as a domesticable animal.
The chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) is another candidate, although its domestication timeline is more debated. Chickens were likely first domesticated around 6000 BCE in Southeast Asia, possibly from the red junglefowl (Gallus gallus). Chickens provided eggs and meat, becoming a staple in many diets worldwide. Their small size and ease of maintenance also made them suitable for urban environments.
Cattle (Bos taurus) are another significant domesticate. Evidence from the Near East and Europe suggests that cattle were being domesticated around 7000 BCE. Cattle provided a substantial source of milk, meat, and labor, revolutionizing agricultural practices and enabling the growth of larger settlements.
In conclusion, while the dog remains the first domesticated animal, the goat, pig, sheep, chicken, and cattle are among the species that were domesticated soon after. Each of these animals played a pivotal role in shaping human societies by providing essential resources and enabling advancements in agriculture and animal husbandry. The precise order of their domestication continues to be a subject of ongoing research and debate among archaeologists and historians.