The Canidae family is not limited to the subspecies canis lupus familiaris, which includes domestic dogs. There are atypical wild dogs scattered across all continents.
If the majority of dogs today are domesticated by humans, these companions are actually the descendants of wild animals that have been crossed and tamed over the centuries. But some of them continue to live in freedom in certain parts of the world. There have even been previously domesticated dogs returned to the wild, creating new species. Focus on five species of wild dogs and their properties.
the lycaon
The Lycaon. simoneemanphoto – stock.adobe.co
Called the “African wild dog”, the lycaon can be observed in the wild in ten countries in the southern part of the continent. Because of its spotted coat, slender legs and large ears, the wild dog resembles a hyena. But he does not belong to the same species. Wild dogs live in packs and are sociable animals, but above all very protective of their young. However, they are considered pests in Africa and the species is now endangered.
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The cave
A hole. Banu – stock.adobe.com
Recognizable by its red dress, which gives it the appearance of a fox, it hole is a wild dog that only lives in Asia. Like the wild dog, the dhole lives and hunts in packs. Although it is carnivorous, its diet also includes berries, insects… However, it is very rare to encounter dholes in the wild. The species is in danger of extinction due to many factors, such as the reduction of its territory, massive hunting, but also because it is not resistant to diseases transmitted by domestic dogs.
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the dingo
A dingo. Kris – stock.adobe.com
Like the kangaroo or the koala, the dingo is one of Australia’s emblematic animals. Moreover, it is considered the most important predator in the country. The dingo was introduced by man several millennia ago and was originally a domestic dog. But he has returned to nature and lives in herds. The dingo is cut for hunting and can run up to 65 km/h at a peak. Besides, he has no predators in the country. However, it is hunted by humans as it attacks flocks.
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The raccoon
The raccoon. Pawel – stock.adobe.com
The raccoon, nicknamed “raccoon” because of its muzzle and coat, is a solitary animal native to Asia. However, it can also be observed in Russia and Eastern Europe after the introduction of the species on the continent in the 1930s. It is smaller than other wild dogs and has the unusual ability to hibernate. If it has an omnivorous diet, the raccoon is still considered harmful, both in Europe and in Asia.
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the coyote
A coyote in Colorado. unknown / Robert Kelsey – stock.adobe.com
Very similar in appearance to the wolf, the coyote is a wild dog that lives only on the North American continent. Among all dog breeds (both domesticated and wild), it is one of those with the most developed senses. In addition to hearing, smelling and sight being superior to its congeners, it is fast and a very good swimmer. The coyote lives mainly in packs and hunts a variety of prey ranging from frogs to beavers. But it can also be a scavenger hunt or feed with food scraps.
