Long ago, dholes existed all over the world. A few decades ago, their number drastically declined, and they are now only found in Asia. The dhole population has drastically declined over the last few years. There are an estimated 2,500 or fewer adult dholes in the wild. Habitat loss, diminished food supply, hunting, and illegal trade threaten the dhole population.

The dhole is about the size of a German shepherd, but it looks a lot more like a fox. Their coats are usually a reddish brown with white-tipped ears. Dholes are incredibly fast, great hunters, skilled swimmers, and impressive hunters.

Fun Facts

• The dhole's scientific name is Cuon Alpinus.
• The IUCN has listed Dholes as endangered species.
• They are native to south, central, and southeast Asia.
• They are sometimes called red dogs, Asiatic wild dogs, Indian wild dogs, and sometimes mountain wolves.
• In captivity, dholes have the potential to live for 10 to 13 years.
• Dholes have a carnivorous diet which includes deer, wild boars, and sheep.