Extinct Woolly Dogs of North America Rediscovered Through Genetic Analysis

Researchers have used genetic analysis to shed light on the extinct woolly dogs of North America. Dogs have been present in the Americas for over 10,000 years, and the woolly dogs were a breed specifically bred by the Indigenous Coast Salish peoples of the Pacific Northwest for their wool. The woolly dogs were larger than modern American Eskimo dogs and had curled tails, pricked ears, and a pointed foxlike face. They were primarily kept by high-status Coast Salish women for the purpose of harvesting their hair for textile fibers.

The decline of the woolly dog breed has been attributed to various factors, including the availability of cheap manufactured blankets introduced by European settlers. However, Coast Salish people argue that the disappearance of the woolly dogs was largely due to repressive government policies aimed at suppressing Indigenous cultural practices. These policies, enforced by authorities such as the police, Indian agents, and priests, prohibited the keeping of woolly dogs and led to their eventual extinction.

To learn more about the woolly dogs, researchers examined the pelt of a woolly dog named Mutton, which has been housed in the Smithsonian’s collection since his death in 1859. Stable isotope analysis revealed insights into Mutton’s diet and health, while genetic analysis provided information about his ancestry. Mutton’s DNA was compared with that of other ancient and modern dogs, revealing his precolonial Indigenous North American ancestry.

The study also found evidence of inbreeding in Mutton’s genome, indicating careful long-term selective breed management. Approximately one eighth of Mutton’s genome was traced back to settler-introduced European dogs, reflecting the volatile time period during which he lived.

The research team collaborated with Coast Salish weavers and artists, using Mutton’s pelt and archaeological dog bones to reconstruct the appearance of the woolly dogs with scientific accuracy. The findings of this study not only provide insights into the history and cultural significance of the woolly dogs but also offer potential avenues for reviving traditional weaving techniques and understanding heritage woven materials.

While it is not possible to bring back the original woolly dogs, the study has sparked interest among some Coast Salish individuals in selectively breeding and caring for a new kind of woolly dog in the future. The woolly dog remains an important part of Coast Salish culture and heritage.