The article doesn't mention any of this research, but DNA evidence seems to suggest that dogs were first domesticated in China 11,000 to 16,000 years ago:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/08/science/08dogs.html

http://www.archaeology.org/1009/dogs/

An interesting viewpoint, although I think the genetic evidence goes against it:

http://newguinea-singing-dog-conservation.org/Tidbits/Origin...

If you see a painting of a dog in a rock, you will surely think it was painted by somebody. If I said that the molecules where evolved during billions and billions of years and formed the painting you would say for sure that I am crazy. Now, the dog is much more complex than the dog painting and if I say that the dog evolved during billions and billions of years, you should say that I am totally nuts to think this, because for sure somebody MADE the dog!!! Yes, God CREATED the dog!

Interesting conclusion[0]. Mine was that people created the dog as we know it, and it's manifold breeds, by domesticating the wolf.

[0] Standard sarcasm on internet disclaimer.

How do you create a dog? Breeding is different than creating.

No, men made most domesticated animals via breeding.

Which one?

The one that you hate.

No, that one was bred. I know the breeder.

Sounds like you don't think highly of God, though. That's a shame - He's a great painter. You should visit an art gallery, many collections have some of his work (usually labelled Unknown Artist).