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ATU researcher contributes to a study rewriting history of the modern dog breeds
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) researcher has contributed to the groundbreaking international research challenging long-standing beliefs about the origins of today’s dog breeds. Dr Ruth Carden, Senior Research Fellow, based in Galway, brought expertise in Irish faunal history and archaeological science, providing key insights into canine development in Ireland.
The study, co-led by Dr Carly Ameen from the University of Exeter and Dr Allowen Evin, a French bioarchaeologist and a Research Director at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), and recently covered in the Irish Independent, reveals that Victorian kennel clubs were not solely responsible for creating modern dog breeds, as often believed.
The research combines shape morphometric analysis and historical analysis to show that breed development is far more complex than previously assumed. The findings point to deeper ancestral influences, broader geographical connections, and overlooked breeding practices that shaped the dogs we know today.
“Our work reframes the story of modern dog breeds,” said Dr Ruth Carden.
It reveals a much richer and more global history of canine development than the traditional Victorian narrative suggests.
Through archival research, skull shape statistical geomorphometric analysis and multi-institutional collaboration, the project builds a fuller picture of how dogs evolved alongside human society. This research expands our understanding of evolution, culture and human-animal relationships.
Dr Carden’s ongoing research will focus on uncovering when the earliest dogs arrived in Ireland and how they first became part of Irish life.
Photo capion: Dr Ruth Carden, Senior Research Fellow at Atlantic Technological University (ATU)
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
E: ivana.hanjs@atu.ie
