Climate change is a global issue that affects not only humans but also animals. Dogs, our beloved companions, are not exempt from the impacts of climate change. As temperatures rise and weather patterns become more erratic, dogs are also undergoing significant transformations to adapt to these changes. Experts at Love Your Dog are using artificial intelligence (AI) to predict how dogs will evolve in the future, and the results are quite surprising.
According to Jessica D’avilia and Brenda Vitorino from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, dogs in the future are expected to resemble MACHes, with large ears and even hairless legs. These dogs are predicted to weigh between 8.8-22 pounds on average, with a small size, little to no hair (considered hypoallergenic), and a calm and friendly temperament. These physical modifications and behaviors will be chosen in stages and artificially, with dog breeders determining commercially attractive characteristics to meet human needs.
One interesting aspect of the future evolution of dogs is the increase in the size of their ears. A study led by Deakin University in Australia revealed that many hot-blooded animals, including dogs, will evolve with larger ears to help dissipate excess heat. While this change is currently less than 10 percent, it is expected to become more pronounced in the future. Sara Ryding, the study’s author, suggests that dogs will have larger, pointed short-nose and ears to cope with rising temperatures.
As temperatures continue to rise, it is also anticipated that the hair on dogs will become thinner. However, some types of dogs may develop thicker fur on their feet to protect their soles from hot surfaces. Lighter fur can help dogs reflect heat, while shorter and more xidal-like muzzles can help them retain moisture. These physical adaptations are crucial for dogs to survive and thrive in a changing climate.
It is important to note that these modifications to dog breeds take time, approximately eight generations, to fully take effect. Dog owners are also expected to choose animals that require minimal space and care, as the trend of increasing working hours continues. This shift towards low-maintenance pets reflects the changing lifestyles of dog owners in response to climate change.
In conclusion, dogs are not immune to the effects of climate change, and they are evolving to adapt to these challenges. The future of dogs may involve physical changes such as larger ears, hairless legs, and hypoallergenic coats to cope with rising temperatures. These adaptations are essential for dogs to thrive in a changing environment and continue to be our loyal companions. As we witness these transformations in dogs, it is crucial to understand and support their evolving needs in a rapidly changing world.
