Ethnocynology
Ethnocynology is the study of dogs in human cultural contexts. This podcast, hosted by anthropologist and comedian David Ian Howe, explores the history and archaeology of dogs, the roles of dogs in modern media, and the latest findings from archaeology in general.
Dogs, Death, and Mourning in Human Culture - Ep 30
In this episode of Ethnocynology, David talks about the book he's writing, reflects on the recent passing of his dog and his uncle, and what those have in common. With an upcoming trip to Mexico to research dogs in ancient and classical Mexican culture, David weaves in themes of dogs as spiritual constants and symbols of death around the world, including ancient Persia and China. He also asks the audience to consider how dogs and death may go hand in hand in their own lives.
The History of Dogs: Evolution, Archaeology, and Mythology - Ep 29
In this episode of ethnocynology, David gets back to dogs!
Ever wanted to hear his full manifesto on dogs, culminating nearly a decade of research? Well, here it is!
What are dogs, where do they come from, and why are they so prevalent in history, legend, and mythology?
Getting a Doctorate in Ice Age Archaeology with Dr. Mckenna Litynski - Ep 28
What if one of the most important technologies in human history wasn’t a spear, a stone tool, or writing, but a bone needle?
In this episode of Ethnocynology, David sits down with Dr. McKenna Litynski, an interdisciplinary anthropologist, to explore how sewing needles, clothing, and thermoregulation fundamentally reshaped human survival during the Ice Age. And helped Homo sapiens expand across the globe.
This conversation is both a deep dive into Ice Age archaeology and a clear, behind-the-scenes walkthrough of how you actually earn a PhD in anthropology, from preliminary exams to dissertation defense. This episode acts as both a spiritual successor to the viral “Why a Clovis Bone Needle Is the Most Important Artifact in North America” video and a practical guide for students curious about graduate school.