Recent studies continue to highlight the significant role women played in the domestication of dogs. This challenges the traditional view of men being the primary drivers of the human-dog bond. Anthropological research, spearheaded by figures like Jaime Chambers, suggests that dogs were more likely to be viewed as individuals when they shared a special connection with women.
These findings are supported by cross-cultural analyses of various traditional communities. These communities often rely on ancestral practices such as hunting, gathering, and subsistence agriculture, offering valuable insights into pre-industrial human-animal interactions. The data indicates that dogs cared for by women were more readily integrated into family life.
Veterinarians and researchers note that women's inherent nurturing abilities, often developed through motherhood, facilitate communication with non-verbal beings. This empathy is crucial in forming strong bonds with dogs. The ongoing research emphasizes the importance of affection and consistent care in the co-evolution of humans and dogs, highlighting women's central role in shaping this enduring relationship.