this post was submitted on 15 May 2024
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Mildly Interesting

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[–] AlligatorBlizzard@sh.itjust.works 5 points 6 months ago (4 children)

Bio nerd lemmings, could a Chihuahua impregnate a grey wolf and have puppies?

[–] Darukhnarn@feddit.de 7 points 6 months ago (1 children)

In theory: yes, most likely. In practice? No.

[–] The_v@lemmy.world 8 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago) (1 children)

Genetically the cross is theoretically possible. The difference in size of the individuals, especially the reproductive organs creates a barrier that prevents crossing.

If the differences had been created via natural selection not artificial selection, a great Dane and Chihuahua would likely be listed as different species or subspecies for the same reasons.

[–] Darukhnarn@feddit.de 7 points 6 months ago

Dogs would be a good example for ring species, which show the outer limits of the species definition, if they they occurred in the wild in their many diverse forms. But since they are not, I’d group them as one species still, as their origin is artificial and so are, at least partly, their means of reproduction.

[–] Catoblepas@lemmy.blahaj.zone 6 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Wait, let him cook. This might be the solution to idiots that want wolf dogs. Give them something that is technically a wolf dog, but too tiny to actually hurt anyone.

[–] swab148@startrek.website 1 points 6 months ago

I have a wolf dog, and she is the sweetest, most loving dog I've ever had! Not an aggressive bone in her body, and she is about 50% pure FLOOF. I love her so much, and she is currently cuddled up on top of my feet as I sit here at my computer desk.

[–] Zip2@feddit.uk 3 points 6 months ago

Only with the aid of a step ladder and a lot of determination.

[–] muntedcrocodile@lemm.ee 3 points 6 months ago

The old school way probably not. By way of humans doing artificially probably.