The taxonomic classification of a dog is as follows:
- Domain: Eukarya
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Canidae
- Genus: Canis
- Species: Canis lupus familiaris
Dogs belong to the domain Eukarya, which means they are composed of complex cells with a nucleus. As part of the kingdom Animalia, they are multicellular organisms that are heterotrophic and primarily reproduce sexually. The phylum Chordata indicates that dogs have a spinal cord, while belonging to the class Mammalia means they are warm-blooded and have fur or hair and typically bear live young. Their order, Carnivora, signifies that they have adaptations for a carnivorous diet.
Within the family Canidae, dogs share a lineage with wolves, foxes, and other canids. The genus Canis groups them alongside their close relatives, and finally, the subspecies designation Canis lupus familiaris captures their domesticated nature. This classification helps us understand more about dogs in relation to other animals and their evolutionary history.