Russet Harness Short Dog Leash

History

The history of dog domestication is a fascinating journey that spans thousands of years. It is believed that dogs are descended from wolves, and the process of domestication began when early humans formed mutually beneficial relationships with these wild canines.

The exact timeline of dog domestication is still a subject of ongoing research and debate. However, evidence suggests that the process started between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago, during the Paleolithic era. Early humans were hunter-gatherers, and they likely encountered wolves scavenging near human settlements. Wolves were attracted to the abundant food sources around humans, while humans may have benefited from the wolves' keen senses and ability to assist in hunting and providing protection.

Over time, a gradual coexistence developed, with certain wolves becoming more comfortable around humans and vice versa. This created a bond between humans and these proto-dogs, leading to a mutual dependence. The wolves that exhibited friendlier behavior may have received food and shelter from humans, while humans gained valuable companionship, assistance in hunting, and early warning systems for potential dangers.

As this relationship deepened, humans likely began selectively breeding wolves based on desired traits such as size, temperament, and hunting abilities. This intentional breeding, combined with natural selection, gradually shaped the wolves into distinct dog breeds with diverse characteristics. Different regions and human cultures contributed to the development of various dog breeds, resulting in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and abilities seen in dogs today.

The significance of dogs in human societies grew as agriculture emerged around 10,000 years ago. Dogs played essential roles in guarding livestock, assisting in herding, and protecting settlements from threats. They became valuable companions, offering companionship, assistance in transportation, and even providing warmth during cold nights.

Throughout history, dogs have continued to serve humans in numerous ways. They have worked alongside humans in activities such as hunting, herding, and pulling sleds. Dogs have also taken on roles as loyal companions, service animals, search and rescue partners, and therapy animals, showcasing their versatility and adaptability.

The bond between humans and dogs has deepened over centuries, leading to the recognition of dogs as valued family members and pets. Today, dogs are widely loved and cherished, playing integral roles in people's lives as loyal companions and sources of emotional support.

Leather 101

Vegetable Tanned vs Chrome Tanned

All Xcentric Fab Co American and Utility leather goods are made out of the finest, most environmentally friendly American full grain leather available - Wicket & Craig veg tanned leather.

Vegetable Tanned Leather:

No chemicals are used in this tanning method. Vegetable tanning utilizes tannic acids that are found in plants. Bark, branches, leaves and fruits can be used depending on the technique. This leaves the leather with a natural smell. As far as color, you can expect vegetable tanned leather will have deep natural, earthy brown tones. The leather will have a very natural look when finished. Production time can be lengthy (roughly 2 months) and needs to be completed by a very skilled craftsmen who is familiar with the process. This can lead to high cost of the final product. Veg tanned leather lasts a lifetime, and since the tanning process only utilizes natural ingredients, it is environmentally friendly and the leather is bio-degradable.

Chrome Tanned Leather:

Chrome tanned leather is the most popular way of tanning leather. This is because it is a very quick method, and can produce a product in just days. The hides are dyed in acid, salt, chromium sulfate and other chemicals. Once the hide has been soaked in the acid salt the leather will be light blue in color. Whatever color desired can be applied from this point. This type of leather is commonly used for jackets, gloves, and upholstery for car seats. This is not environmentally friend as the process results in toxic waste water that will negatively impact the environment. The leather is also not bio-degradable.