Study Reveals Chihuahuas Share DNA With Wild Coyotes

A new genetic study published in Nature Communications has revealed that Chihuahuas, the world’s tiniest dog breed, share a surprising amount of DNA with wild coyotes, potentially explaining some of their distinctive traits. The research used advanced ancestry inference programs to map the evolutionary history of the breed.

A Sizable Quirk in the Chihuahua Genome

The study does not clarify whether the ancient interbreeding between Chihuahua ancestors and coyotes was deliberate or accidental. However, it notes some physical and behavioral traits in Chihuahuas that are reminiscent of their wild relatives, including their massive ears and expressive howls. Unlike many other lap dogs, Chihuahuas are known for being independent, proud, and self-assured.

New study reveals Chihuahuas share genes with coyotes

The Role of Artificial Selection

While the coyote DNA offers a partial explanation for some Chihuahua characteristics, the breed’s miniature stature is more likely a result of artificial selection. Humans have long bred dogs for specific traits, and there is some evidence of diminutive dogs among pre-contact Mesoamerican cultures. However, the direct relationship between these ancient small dogs and modern Chihuahuas remains unknown.

Unlike some other lap dogs, Chihuahuas are known for their independent, proud, and self-assured natures, despite their size. We’d like to think it could be the wild coyote within, though it is difficult to say for sure. Wild coyotes and wolves have been found to hybridize naturally, especially in geographical areas where ‘wolf-like’ behavioral traits are beneficial, according to zoologist Jacqueline Boyd, who was not involved in the study.

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Coyotes are much smaller than wolves, but they’re still far from the diminutive dimensions of a Chihuahua. The Chihuahua’s miniature stature was probably more a result of artificial selection, with humans breeding for specific traits, than anything else. There is some evidence for the presence of diminutive dogs among pre-contact Mesoamerican cultures, but how these relate to Chihuahuas is unknown, Boyd wrote.

The research was published in Nature Communications. ScienceAlert stories are written, fact-checked, and edited by humans, never generated by AI. Don’t miss a story, subscribe here. Related News

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