Some points for concern in this study even if it’s uncomfortable to some of us.
In the end it all circles back to humans and their need for trusted companions of other species. Humans’ best friends are likely to go the distance with us till extinction do part us.
Limiting dog populations could arguably be easier than doing the same with human populations.
It’s a massive industry beginning From domestication of wolves in the ancient times to corporate industrialisation of breeding, pet food, dog spas and accessories.
Just typing the word Dog into the search reveals a lot on how much humans are interlinked with dogs, their lives and well being; presumably for our well being
Selective breeding in or of specific characteristics has resulted in the bewildering variety we see around us. (as fashion accessory lapdogs, guard dogs, guide dogs for the visually impaired, therapy dogs, to police dogs etc)
Dog poo disposal in crowded urban tenements are a source of conflict frequently and large numbers of domesticated canines in the buffer zones are definitely a threat to other small animals in forests and protected nature reserves though many in such locations are eaten by leopards.
Let’s not forget dogs are on the menu in some parts of the world.
Over population of any species disturbs the balance of nature. Large scale Cow breeding and methane gas emissions are another link that has been known for a few decades now.
Ironically, wild dogs and wolves face extinction threats.