African Hunting Dog
Also Called: African Wild Dog Cape Hunting Dog Lycaon Pictus
| Friendliness | High |
|---|---|
| Kid Friendly | High |
| Pet Friendly | High |
| Exercise Needs | Significant |
| Playfulness | High |
| Energy Level | High |
| Trainability | Average |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency To Bark | Low |
| Amount Of Shedding | Medium |
The African Hunting Dog, also known as the African Wild Dog or Cape Hunting Dog, is a large, canid native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the largest indigenous canine in Africa, and even though it’s classified as endangered, there are still around 6,600 of them living in the wild. African Hunting Dogs have a distinctive “painted” look, with a mottled coat in shades of black, tan, white, and yellow. They are gregarious animals that live in packs, and are extremely efficient hunters.
Breed Overview
- Group: Sighthound
- Life Span: 10-12 years
- Height: Medium
- Weight: Medium
- Coat: Short
- Coat Colors: Black,White,Tan,Yellow
- Litter Size: 5-10
- Family: Sight Hounds
- Hypoallergenic: false
- Recognition: None
- Size: Medium
Training and Care
African Hunting Dogs are intelligent, but they can be stubborn and independent. They need firm and consistent leadership, as well as plenty of exercise and stimulation. They should be socialized from an early age with other animals, and need training to prevent them from becoming destructive.
Diet and Nutrition
African Hunting Dogs have a diet made up mostly of small animals such as rodents, insects, and lizards. It’s important to feed them a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet to keep them healthy and maintain their energetic lifestyle. They also need plenty of fresh, clean water at all times.
Health Problems
African Hunting Dogs are prone to various illnesses and health problems, including mange, canine infectious hepatitis, canine distemper, and rabies. They may also suffer from parasites, such as fleas and ticks, as well as skin allergies. To reduce the chances of them developing any of these issues, regular vaccinations are important. Additionally, they need to be spayed or neutered to reduce the risk of them developing uterine infections.
Breed History
The African Hunting Dog is believed to have appeared on the African continent around 8,000 years ago. Their unique “painted” markings help them stand out in the savanna, making them easier to locate and track. They’re also known for their strong social bonds. Historically, they lived in packs of up to 12 individuals, and hunted together for their food.
