Author: Noelle M. Brooks

The dhole is 1 of only 3 canid species with specialized dental adaptations for a hypercarnivorous diet, and have a thicker muzzle, shorter jaw, and 2 less molar teeth than other canids.

Unlike many other canines, the dhole seldom kills by biting the throat, but instead attacks from the rear.

Every pack member of a dhole pack is reproductively suppressed and instead helps care for the young of the dominant breeding pair.

Dholes have the largest land requirements of any Asian species and prefer open spaces, such as clearings and river beds.

Dholes engage in obligate cooperative group hunting and group care of their young and, of the canids, are most similar to African wild dogs due to their social behaviors.

With fewer than 2,300 mature individuals remaining, the dhole is endangered due to habitat loss, inter-species competition, depletion of prey, persecution, and disease.

Dholes are docile, gentle, communal animals and do not show aggression toward each other.

Each dhole pack contains a dominant monogamous breeding alpha pair.

The dhole is a hypercarnivore, with a diet of at least 70% meat, the majority consisting of deer and other ungulates.

Dholes are highly social animals that live in packs averaging 5-12, but can number up to 40 depending on the ecosystem and prey availability.

Depending on the region, an adult dhole's pelage may vary from light brownish-charcoal gray to a sandy beige or red coat.

Dholes are known as "whistling dogs" because of their vocal nature and bird-like whistling calls.

The dhole is about the size of a medium-sized dog, and males tend to be larger and heavier than females.

The dhole is the only species in the Cuon genus and is known by many names, though the origin of "dhole" is unknown.

The dhole was originally distinguished as two seperate species of Cuon, but later recognized as a single species, separated into 11, then 3, subspecies.

Dholes are intelligent canines and can be trained to follow commands.

Dholes are great diggers.