Dogs were first domesticated around 13,000 BC in East Asia from gray wolves. Genetic evidence indicates domestication occurred in the late Upper Paleolithic era. Early humans domesticated wolves for help with herding and hunting, as well as companionship. Dogs provided protection and a food source in exchange for companionship, shelter, and a reliable food source from humans. Early domestication likely occurred from orphaned wolf cubs that were raised by humans and over generations became more docile.