The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Science & Nature›Mammalogy›Dhole
Science & Nature • Mammalogy

Dhole

The dhole (*Cuon alpinus*) is a wild canid native to South, East and Southeast Asia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The dhole (*Cuon alpinus*) is a wild canid native to South, East and Southeast Asia. It is the only living species in the genus *Cuon* and is known for its social, pack-hunting behaviour. The species is listed as Endangered by the IUCN and is also called the Asiatic wild dog or red dog.

Taxonomy and classification

The dhole is scientifically named *Cuon alpinus* and belongs to the dog family Canidae. It is the only extant species in its genus and differs from *Canis* in skull and tooth structure.

Description

Dholes are medium-sized canids with reddish or rust-coloured fur, a dark tail and rounded ears. Sources describe them as having a body plan adapted for endurance and cooperative hunting.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to South, East and Southeast Asia, where it occurs in forests, shrublands and other wooded habitats. Historical sources indicate its range was once broader than it is today.

Behaviour and diet

Dholes are pack-living predators that hunt cooperatively. They are carnivores that prey on a variety of wild animals, and their social structure is a defining feature of the species.

Conservation status

The dhole is listed as Endangered and faces population decline in many areas. Major threats include habitat loss, fragmentation, reduced prey availability and human persecution.

Key facts

  • The dhole is the sole living member of the genus *Cuon*.
  • It is a canid related to dogs, wolves and foxes.
  • Dholes are highly social and hunt cooperatively in packs.
  • The species is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
  • Common threats include habitat loss, prey depletion and persecution.
🍁
Canadian context

There is no strong Canada-specific connection in the provided sources, although the dhole may be of interest to Canadian readers through zoo collections, wildlife conservation coverage and comparative mammalogy.

Frequently asked questions

What is a dhole?
A dhole is a wild canid from Asia, scientifically known as *Cuon alpinus*.
Is the dhole a type of dog?
It is part of the dog family, Canidae, but it is a distinct wild species, not a domestic dog.
Where do dholes live?
They are native to South, East and Southeast Asia and live in forested and wooded habitats.
Are dholes endangered?
Yes. The dhole is classified as Endangered by the IUCN.
What do dholes eat?
They are carnivores and hunt other animals, often cooperatively in packs.
What are other names for the dhole?
Common names include Asiatic wild dog, Indian wild dog, red dog and whistling dog.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhole
    Supports: Scientific name, taxonomic placement, native range and distinguishing anatomical traits.
  2. PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/dhole-fact-sheet/
    Supports: Common names, taxonomy and Endangered conservation status.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/dhole
    Supports: General description, size range and classification as a wild Asian carnivore.
  4. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/dholes
    Supports: Behaviour, habitat, diet and conservation status.
  5. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service — https://www.fws.gov/species/dhole-cuon-alpinus
    Supports: Common names and scientific name.
  6. WildArk — https://wildark.org/species/dhole/
    Supports: Cooperative pack-hunting behaviour.