Dogs: History, Groups, Nutrition, and Care

Flashcards covering definitions and key concepts related to the history, feeding, training, and diseases of dogs.

Miacis

The common ancestor of dogs and bears, dating back 40 million years.

Tomarctus

Referred to as the 'Father of modern dogs', it is the immediate ancestor of the family dog as we know it.

Canis lupus

The scientific name for wolves, the ultimate ancestor of all domestic dogs.

The Sporting Group

A group of dog breeds developed to assist hunters in pursuing game.

The Hound Group

A classification of dogs that primarily hunts by scent or sight.

Terrier Group

This group contains small breeds that were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin.

Working Dog Group

Breeds that work for humans, such as sled dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs.

Herding Dog Group

The newest group of dogs that can control the movement of other animals.

Toy Dog Group

Small dog breeds developed primarily as house pets and companions.

Non-Sporting Dogs

A diverse group of dogs bred primarily as companions, not specifically for a particular job.

Hybrid Breeds

Dogs produced by crossing purebred dogs of two different breeds.

Commercial dog food

Designed to meet nutritional requirements and is the most common feeding option for dogs.

Obedience training

Training that involves teaching a dog to respond to commands and follow cues.

Vaccination

Immunizations given to prevent infectious diseases in dogs.

Canine distemper

A highly contagious viral disease affecting dogs, characterized by vomiting and nervous system damage.

Heartworm Life Cycle

The process by which heartworms develop within mosquitoes and infect dogs.

Anal glands

Sacs located between the internal and external anal sphincters that express fluid during defecation.

Fungal dog diseases

Diseases caused by fungal infections, such as ringworm and blastomycosis.

Leptospirosis

A bacterial disease transmitted through contaminated water that affects dogs' livers and kidneys.

Castration

The surgical procedure of neutering a male dog.

Parturition

The process of a mother dog giving birth, also referred to as whelping.