The subspecies designation links domestic dogs to which specific wild species through domestication?
Answer
The gray wolf, *Canis lupus*.
The scientific designation *Canis lupus familiaris* formalizes the evolutionary understanding that all domestic dog breeds are descendants that diverged from the ancient populations of the gray wolf, *Canis lupus*. This link is crucial for tracing the genetic background and evolutionary history of the dog. Although breeds like the Westie have undergone extensive selective breeding, resulting in marked differences from their wild progenitor, their fundamental ancestry is rooted in the wolf species.
Related Questions
What characteristic defines organisms placed in the Kingdom Animalia, separating them from fungi and plants?What key features characterize the Class Mammalia to which the West Highland White Terrier belongs?The Westie belongs to the Order Carnivora; what evolutionary implication does this historical grouping suggest?Within the Family level, the West Highland White Terrier is grouped with what other canid relatives?What is the specific scientific name designated for the entire population of domestic dogs, including the Westie?The subspecies designation links domestic dogs to which specific wild species through domestication?The Westie is classified within which functional grouping maintained by kennel clubs based on shared utility?What specific physical traits were deliberately selected for when breeding the Westie for its role in the Scottish Highlands?What was the original primary utility function that led to the development of the West Highland White Terrier breed?Which taxonomic rank is explicitly identified as a non-formal Linnaean rank used to define recognized breed groupings like the Westie?What divergence in classification logic is noted regarding the Order Carnivora versus contemporary Westie feeding guidelines?