African Wild Dog - Animals Town

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African Wild Dog

African wild dog facts and information:
Type: Mammal
Diet: Carnivore
Average lifespan in the wild: Up to 11 years
Size: 29.5 to 43 in (75 to 110 cm)
Weight: 39.5 to 79 lbs (18 to 36 kg)
Group name: Pack
Protection status: Endangered

The African wild dog, also called Cape hunting dog or painted dog, typically roams the open plains and sparse woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa.

These long-legged canines have only four toes per foot, unlike other dogs, which have five toes on their forefeet. The dog's Latin name means "painted wolf," referring to the animal's irregular, mottled coat, which features patches of red, black, brown, white, and yellow fur. Each animal has its own unique coat pattern, and all have big, rounded ears.

African wild dog video.

How do African wild dogs live?

African wild dogs live in packs that are usually dominated by a monogamous breeding pair. The female has a litter of 2 to 20 pups, which are cared for by the entire pack. These dogs are very social, and packs have been known to share food and to assist weak or ill members. Social interactions are common, and the dogs communicate by touch, actions, and vocalizations.

How many African wild dogs are in a pack?

African wild dogs live and hunt in groups called packs. Packs typically include an alpha (dominant) male and female, their offspring and other related members. Historically, more than 100 dogs gathered in packs during spring migrations, but today the average pack of African wild dogs contains approximately 10 members. Unlike other canine species, packs of wild dogs frequently contain more male members than female members.

Are all African wild dogs the same?

African wild dogs have markings that are unique to each individual, like fingerprints, and help the pack identify each other. The markings may also help the dogs to blend in with the pack, so that prey species cannot determine how many dogs are present.

African Wild Dog picture