How did the fierce wolf become a playful puppy? And why are there so many varieties? We feed them, breed them, pet them and dress them, but how well do we really know them? John Lithgow narrates this insightful look at how dogs evolved from fierce wolves to playful pets--and why there are so many types of dogs today. Whether you're a dog person or not, there's no denying dogs are an evolutionary marvel, and thanks to human intervention, they are one of the most diverse species on earth. With an amazing array of sizes, shapes, colors, temperaments and other quirks, canis familiaris features one of the most tinkered-with gene pools in the animal kingdom. NOVA goes beyond the wagging tails and floppy ears to reveal surprising insights into the origin and evolutionary strategy of our canine companions. From a wolf research facility in rural Indiana to New York's Westminster Dog Show, you'll discover some amazing dog facts. Did you know the Saluki can beat any other mammal on earth in a three-mile race? That dogs developed spots for a specific reason? And that their evolution is helping us learn about our own?

Special DVD features include: materials and activities for educators; scene selections; closed captions; and described video for the visually impaired.