Why These 6 Animals Shouldn’t Be Domesticated

Attempts to domesticate these animals could prove harmful — to both the animal and their possible owner. Learn why you shouldn’t domesticate these animals.

By Allison Futterman
Nov 17, 2023 4:00 PM
Sad red fox bein held by human
(Credit: Sergey Bezgodov/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Man has been domesticating animals for more than 15,000 years. Dogs are likely the first, followed by sheep, pigs, goats, and horses. The widely accepted criteria of “domesticated” include genetic differences from their ancestors, dependence on humans for food, and being unlikely or unable to breed with their wild counterparts.

Although some people keep wild and exotic animals as pets, it’s not recommended. Here are six animals that people shouldn’t domesticate.

1. Can Raccoons Be Domesticated?  

(Credit: Agnieszka Bacal/Shutterstock)

No, raccoons aren’t social creatures and don’t generally belong to a community. They require a large area and should never be kept in cages. In the wild, they roam and explore, which they can’t do when confined. 

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.