The dhole is a reddish wild dog of Asian forests, known for its cooperative pack hunting. It is one of the most endangered carnivores in Asia, and India holds most of the remaining population.
Interesting facts
- Dholes hunt in packs that usually number 5 to 12, sometimes many more.
- A pack can take prey much larger than a single dog, such as sambar deer.
- Packs have been seen driving tigers and leopards away from kills.
- Unlike most dogs, dholes let their pups eat first at a kill.
- Fewer than about 2,500 adult dholes are thought to survive.
- In The Jungle Book, dholes are the ‘red dogs’.
Behaviour
Dhole packs hunt mainly by day, chasing prey over long distances. They are highly social and communicate with whistles, yelps and screams.
Breeding and young
Usually only the dominant female breeds, giving birth to four to six pups in a den. The whole pack helps feed and guard the pups.
Threats and conservation
Loss of forest habitat and prey, disease from domestic dogs, and persecution by people.
Where to see it
- Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, India
- Nagarhole (Kabini) and Bandipur national parks, India
- Kanha and Pench tiger reserves, India
- Khao Yai National Park, Thailand
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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