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It did not take Man long-probably not more than a hundred…

“It did not take Man long-probably not more than a hundred centuries-to discover that all the animals except the dog were impossible around the house. One has but to spend a few days with an aardvark or llama, command a water buffalo to sit up and beg or try to housebreak a moose, to perceive how…” quote by James Thurber
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“It did not take Man long-probably not more than a hundred centuries-to discover that all the animals except the dog were impossible around the house. One has but to spend a few days with an aardvark or llama, command a water buffalo to sit up and beg or try to housebreak a moose, to perceive how wisely Man set about his process of elimination and selection.”

James Thurber

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Observes that humans have domesticated many animals, but the dog remains uniquely suited to living with people.

In simple terms: Dogs are the only animals truly adapted to homes.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the special bond with dogs.

Themes

animal domestication human-animal relationships humor

Mood

playful observational

Type

humor essay

When to use this quote

  • pet ownership
  • urban living
  • animal training
  • conservation efforts

Key Concepts

evolutionary adaptation selection bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why are dogs uniquely compatible with humans?
  • What does this say about human preferences?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks cultural variations in animal companionship.

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