By Neuroscience News
Modern dog breeds, which are genetically farther from wolves, have relatively larger brain sizes compared to ancient breeds.
The increase in brain size is not related to the specific roles or life history characteristics of the breeds, indicating that it’s likely influenced by urbanization and a more complex social environment.
The study revealed that the further a dog breed is genetically distant from wolves, the larger its relative brain size becomes.
This study provides new insight into the rapid evolution and diversity within the dog species, possibly due to their adaptation to human environments and social complexity.