Born Free Foundation - Keep Wildlife in the Wild

Painted dogs are special

These long-legged canines are also known as the African wild dog, or the Cape hunting dog.  The name refers to the mottled coat, with irregular patches of yellow, brown, white and black fur.  Each dog has a unique coat pattern.  All have big rounded ears and a short powerful muzzle. 

Distribution

Found only in Africa, they have been lost in much of their range and are only found in Tanzania, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

Habitat

At home in a variety of habitats including savannah, woodlands and semi desert.

Diet

The carnivorous dogs hunt in packs on mostly medium sized antelope including gazelle, impala and kudu, but also wildebeest, hares, rodents and other small animals. The dogs stalk their prey until close enough to risk a chase.

Adaptations

To aid hunting the dog has amazing speed and stamina and can run up to 60km/hr for 5km.  Their sense of hearing is highly developed aided by large bat-like ears and dogs communicate using calls as well as body postures. 

Behaviour

Mainly diurnal, the dogs are active during the day as they rely on sight when hunting.

Society

Painted dogs live and hunt in very closely bonded, well-structured family packs of up to 10 individuals, led by a dominant, breeding pair, the ‘alpha male and female’.  There is a high degree of social co-operation and interaction and dogs communicate using calls and body postures.

Reproduction

A lifespan of around 11 years.  Usually only the dominant female breeds, giving birth to around seven young after a gestation period of 72 days.  The entire pack helps to look after the pups, regurgitating food when they are weaned and babysitting. Pups are weaned after three months, and start to help hunt after six months.