Here's why:
* Language Evolution: Words change and evolve over time. The word "dog" has roots in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European languages, which are far older than recorded history.
* Different Languages: Different cultures and languages have their own names for dogs. It's impossible to pinpoint the exact moment when a single word became universally accepted.
* Domestication: Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, and the use of the word "dog" likely emerged gradually along with the process of domestication.
Instead of a specific date, we can say that the word "dog" likely originated:
* Thousands of years ago: Based on the historical evolution of languages and the long history of dog domestication.
It's fascinating to think about how the word we use today for our furry companions has changed and evolved over time!