What was the first animal to be domesticated by humans?

The first animal to be domesticated by humans is widely recognized as the dog. Archaeological evidence suggests that the domestication of dogs began between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago, making them the first domesticated species. This process likely involved the relationship between humans and wolves, where certain wolves that were less fearful of humans began to interact more closely with them. Over time, these wolves eventually became domesticated, giving rise to the modern dog.

The bond formed between early humans and dogs provided mutual benefits: dogs assisted in hunting, guarding, and companionship, while humans provided food and shelter. This domestication played a crucial role in the development of human societies, influencing hunting strategies and facilitating social interactions. Understanding this relationship underscores the significant impact dogs have had on human evolution and culture.