Why are dogs not included in the order Hominidae?

Introduction: The Classification of Mammals

Classification is a fundamental part of biology that helps us understand the relationships between different species. Mammals, being a diverse and widespread group of animals, are classified into orders, which represent the major branches in the mammalian evolutionary tree. Orders are then further classified into suborders, families, genera, and species based on shared characteristics. However, not all mammals are grouped together in the same order, and for a good reason.

What is the Order Hominidae?

The order Hominidae, also known as the great apes, includes humans and their closest primate relatives, such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. Hominidae is classified under the suborder Anthropoidea, which also includes monkeys. The great apes are characterized by their large bodies, opposable thumbs, lack of tails, and complex social behaviors. They are also known for their advanced cognitive abilities, such as tool-making, language, and problem-solving. However, there are several key differences between Hominidae and other families of mammals, such as the Canidae family, which includes dogs.