Scientists discover oldest known domesticated dog breed
Scientists find home of oldest known domesticated dog breed
- Centuries-old DNA has confirmed Greenland's sledge dog, Qimmit, as the oldest known domesticated dog breed, shedding light on its close relationship with the indigenous Inuit people.
- The study found that the Qimmit has uniquely preserved its traditional role as a working sledge dog, unlike many other Arctic breeds that have been replaced or interbred.
- Despite European colonisation, present-day Qimmit dogs show minimal European ancestry, suggesting their genetic isolation in Greenland.
- The breed's genetic continuity supports the theory of rapid Inuit migration across the North American Arctic and indicates an earlier-than-expected arrival of people in Greenland.
- These findings offer a vital guide for preserving the ancient Qimmit breed amid threats from cultural and climate change, and open new avenues for studying human impact on domestic animal evolution.