Many of our destinations, both inside and outside Africa, share a common thread – similar species! From elephants and whale sharks to wild dogs, you can observe wildlife in destinations around the world. Wild dog species can be found on all continents except Antarctica.
These carnivorous, dog-like mammals typically live in family groups, with only the dominant pair breeding. Most species have long muzzles, upright ears and bushy tails; they are instantly recognizable as dogs. As carnivores, they have specialized teeth for shearing meat, and several of the species hunt in groups. They have incredible hunting endurance, sometimes chasing prey until it is exhausted. Wild dogs communicate through vocalizations and scent-marking, and possess extraordinary senses of smell and hearing.
Seeing them in the wild is a special treat, often high on wildlife enthusiasts’ wish lists. Whatever wild dog species you most want to see, our expertise will give you the best chance to see them on your safari.
African wild dogs (aka painted dogs) are found in eight countries in Africa. Seeing a wild dog in its natural habitat is a unique thrill. They often move nonstop, pursuing prey at nearly 30 miles per hour for several miles. They typically feed on small to medium-sized antelope, and the adult members of the pack will regurgitate food for the pups before feeding themselves. With fewer than 7,000 painted dogs remaining, the species is considered endangered. Given their rarity, these tall, slim dogs can be difficult to spot on safari. You can spot these beautiful canids in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya and Mozambique, though some parks offer better chances of seeing them. Talk with your Journey Specialist to narrow down areas where you’ll have the best opportunity for a wild dog sighting.
The dhole, or Asiatic wild dog, is an endangered species found in 11 countries in south and southeast Asia, including in some of India’s national parks where you can also see animals like tigers, gaur and leopards. Estimates have the population pegged between 4,500 and 10,000 dholes remaining in the wild. These canids live and hunt in packs ranging from 10 to 40 individuals.
At up to 85lbs, the dhole weighs about twice as much as a coyote and feeds on medium- to large-sized mammals, including deer, wild pigs and, in some cases, primates. Their diet is based on prey availability, and they are cooperative hunters that rely on endurance and coordination. Our Incredible India safari gives you the opportunity to see dholes in the wild, or our Journey Specialists can plan a customized safari for you to see them.
Australia’s largest land carnivore is the dingo. Wild dogs are not native to Australia – the dingo was introduced to the continent about 3,500 years ago. They thrive in myriad ecosystems, including deserts and forests, with coat coloring varying slightly by region. The dogs feed on small animals ranging in size from rats and birds to kangaroos. Like other wild dog species, only the dominant pair in a pack breeds, while the others collectively care for the pups.
Closely related to wolves, dingoes communicate through howling and scent marking. They have excellent vision, can turn their heads about 180 degrees and have wrists that rotate, allowing them to use their paws somewhat like hands to hunt and climb. The dingo’s conservation status is unknown because the species is not well studied.
Most wild dog populations around the globe are threatened by habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. Seeing them in the wild is a wonderful privilege. The experts at AAC are uniquely positioned to help you plan a trip that will give you the best opportunity to spot wild dogs in their natural habitat.
Contact one of our Journey Specialists to start planning your customized wild dog adventure! Then subscribe to our newsletter below for more travel information and inspiration.
Photos courtesy AAC Senior Journey Specialist Tracy Stevens, AAC Livingstone Club member Kristina P., AAC Marketing Director Beth McCabe, AAC Livingstone Club member Richard B., Rohit Varma, Craig Manners and AAC Safari Concierge Ciara Manning