Did Horses Evolve From Dogs? Unraveling The Equine Ancestry

The modern horse, along with its close relatives such as asses and zebras, belongs to the genus Equus. These animals evolved from a predecessor known as Pliohippus approximately 4 to 4.5 million years ago, during the Pliocene epoch. During this evolutionary transition, Equus underwent significant changes, notably in the development of the spring mechanism within their feet and the structure of their cheek teeth, which became straighter and longer. This transformation marked a crucial step in the evolutionary history of these animals, enabling them to adapt and thrive in diverse environments.

The evolutionary origins of dogs are intertwined with those of their canine relatives, such as wolves and foxes. Researchers grapple with the challenge of identifying the precise common ancestor of these canids, given their distinct characteristics. Nevertheless, current scientific consensus suggests that dogs indeed share a common ancestor with horses, dating back approximately 70 to 79 million years. This shared ancestry provides intriguing insights into the deep history of these animals and their diverse adaptations over millions of years.