Dogs (14–18th centuries AD) from Nadym Gorodok archaeological site (Western Siberia, Russia): Morphology and function

Abstract

AbstractAn osteological collection of dogs from an aboriginal population settlement (Nadym Gorodok) in Western Siberia is described in this work. There were numerous bones (more than 1600) well preserved in the permafrost cultural layer, including almost complete skeletons of dogs of various ages. Craniological characteristics and reconstructions of the size and functions of the aboriginal dog were studied. The analysis of the finds showed that there was a large number of dogs in Nadym Gorodok in the 14–18th centuries AD. Dogs were bred on site in the settlement. During the 4 centuries, middle‐size dogs of the same build were kept in Nadym Gorodok. In size and general skull shape, the dogs were similar to the modern laika breed. The dogs were used mainly for hunting. During a hunt, dogs stalked prey and pulled sledges as a draft animal. There were no herding dogs.