S8 Ep787: 2 HEADLINE: Physical Evolution: Snouts, Size, and Camouflage in the Wild GUESTS: Jessica Pierce and Mark Bekoff SUMMARY: In a post-human world, dogs will undergo significant physical transformations driven by survival needs rather than human preference. S

2 HEADLINE: Physical Evolution: Snouts, Size, and Camouflage in the Wild GUESTS: Jessica Pierce and Mark Bekoff SUMMARY: In a post-human world, dogs will undergo significant physical transformations driven by survival needs rather than human preference. Short-snouted breeds will likely disappear because they cannot breathe well during the intense exercise required to defend territories or hunt. Longer snouts will prevail, potentially aiding in both respiration and sight. Interestingly, smaller dogs might survive better than large breeds because they have lower caloric demands and can hide more easily from predators. Coat colors will shift from artificial patterns to natural camouflage suited to specific environments, often trending toward reddish or gray hues. Physical fitness, specifically speed and dexterity, will become essential as dogs return to being cursorial hunters. 2
1828