NYT: War spurs "reverse evolution" in Ukraine’s abandoned dogs

Scientists have observed changes in the appearance of abandoned domestic dogs in Ukraine, which researchers believe have made them resemble their wild ancestors.

The New York Times reports on this case of “reverse evolution,” citing a study published in the journal Evolutionary Applications.

According to the study, volunteers and veterinarians collected and analysed data from 763 stray dogs in potentially dangerous areas across nine regions of Ukraine. Their findings indicate that, over a short period, dogs living in combat zones have begun to resemble their wild ancestors—wolves, coyotes, or dingoes.

Researchers noted that dogs in conflict zones rarely had short snouts like French Bulldogs or elongated ones like Dachshunds. Their ears also changed, with pointed ears appearing more frequently than drooping ones. In addition, the stray dogs in Ukraine showed reduced body mass, which experts believe helps them survive.

The scientists highlighted that on the frontlines, dogs displaying “wild” phenotypes—straight ears, straight tails, and less white colouring—were more likely to survive, according to the study’s lead author, Małgorzata Witek. She explained that the combat conditions acted as a powerful evolutionary filter, selecting traits that enhance survival in extreme environments.

By Vugar Khalilov