Dogs were first domesticated by humans approximately 20,000 years ago in Asia. Dogs were originally wild animals that lived independently like wolves. One dog grew tired of this lonely existence and sought out an animal stronger than himself to serve. He first approached a wolf but then a bear, sensing they were stronger. However, when a human approached, the dog realized humans were the strongest of all and decided to join and faithfully serve the human. This is how dogs became domesticated as loyal companions and servants to humans.