Mankind's relationship with the dog can be traced back for thousands of years. Indeed, the dog is probably our oldest non-human companion. Excavations of Middle Eastern fossils, believed to be at least 12,000 years old. Interestingly, for an animal that has been so important to us for so very long, there is uncertainty as to the exact way in which domestication of the dog occurred. We cannot even be absolutely sure of the evolutionary route by which the dog itself came about- although most experts are in agreement that the wolf is the most probable ancestor. Man's best friend takes center stage in this lavish, full-color depiction of nearly every breed in existence. Mankind's association with the domestic dog can be traced back thousands of years. Celebrated in art and extolled in legend, the dog has proved to be perhaps our most valuable and best-loved animal friend. When the first wolf-like ancestors of the domestic dog began to scavenge from the settlements of early human beings, there began an alliance which is unique among our relationships with the other animals around us. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Breeds first describes the origins and nature of the dog, and provides valuable advice and guidance concerning all aspects of dog ownership and care, including choosing and keeping your animal healthy - whether it be a pedigree or a crossbreed.