It’s mystified scientists for years, but a new study may help solve the puzzle of where man’s best friend first emerged. The large DNA study, published in the journal Science, shows that dogs originated in Europe somewhere between 19,000 to 32,000 years ago. The earliest known fossils came from Europe, but other DNA studies have suggested Asia and the Middle East. Scientists generally agree that dogs descended from wolves to become the first domesticated animal. They theorize that wolves developed a symbiotic relationship with humans after being attracted to the garbage groups of people discarded, and people found them useful for hunting and protection.
