While they look drastically different, both breeds are domesticated descendants of the grey wolf (Canis lupus). Over thousands of years of selective breeding, different traits were emphasized, resulting in the wide variety of dog breeds we see today.
Here's a simplified explanation:
* Wolf: The original ancestor, possessing traits like a wild nature, large size, and powerful hunting instincts.
* Early Domesticated Dogs: Early humans began domesticating wolves, selectively breeding for traits like tameness, size, and specific skills.
* Breed Diversification: Through continued selective breeding, various breeds emerged with unique characteristics. The Chihuahua and Great Dane represent extreme examples of this, with one being tiny and one being massive.
So, despite their differences, both breeds share a common ancestry in the wolf, and are part of the same species, Canis lupus familiaris (domestic dog).