Endangered relatives of cats and dogs - Part II. Canids

Here we continue our exploration of endangered species with a look at those closely related to domestic dogs - the canids. As we saw in Part I endangered cat species, or felids, there are also quite a few dog species that are struggling to survive. There are 37 canid species and 42 felid species.

Identifying and saving endangered dog species

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (or the IUCN) is the group that maintains a database of animals that are endangered. It is called the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species. And many conservation organizations are dedicated to improving the chances that these animals have to survive. They do this by working to preserve vital habitat, reduce conflicts with humans, develop recovery plans, attract funding to help the animals, and educate the public about the importance of the species. If you love your dog, why not take a moment to learn about their wild endangered relatives (including wolves, foxes, and wild dogs) that need your help!

Endangered dog, wolf, and fox species

1. Red Wolf (Canis rufus)

The Red Wolf is the most critically endangered wolf species. They are a medium sized wolf with large territories. Once found from Texas to Pennsylvania, the Red Wolves were declared extinct in the wild in 1980, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service captured the remaining 14 wolves and started a captive breeding program. The species became the first animal to be successfully reintroduced to the wild, on a small peninsula in northeastern North Carolina. Only about 15 are surviving in the wild, but 241 live in captivity. 

2. Darwin's Fox (Lycalopex fulvipes)

The Darwin's Fox lives in the forests of Chile and is critically endangered with only a few hundred surviving in the wild. It is a small, dark colored animal that is more closely related to wolves than to foxes. Charles Darwin discovered this species on his expedition, thus it was named after him. Threats to the Darwin's Fox are from domestic dogs and their diseases, as well as hunting by humans. Learn more about Darwin's Fox at Fox Protection International. 

3. Ethiopian Wolf (Canis simensis)

The Ethiopian Wolf is from the highlands of Ethiopia. It is a small reddish canid that looks similar to a jackal or fox but is most closely related to the grey wolf. Unfortunately, the Ethiopian Wolf is considered endangered, and is threatened by habitat loss, diseases from domestic dogs, and conflicts with humans. Today, less than 500 remain in the wild making the Ethiopian Wolf the most endangered African canid. Learn more at the Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Programme.

4. African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus) 

The African Wild Dog is endangered  living in packs scattered across arid or woodland habitats in east and southern Africa. They are also called Painted Dogs due to their mottled black, tan, and white markings. African Wild Dogs have many similarities to domestic dogs, being highly social with strong family bonds.  They hunt in packs for medium-sized antelope. The main threat is from being shot or poisoned by humans. To learn more, visit the Painted Dog Conservation program.

5. dhole (Cuon alpinus)

The dhole - or the Asian Wild Dog - is an ancient canid living in Tibet and mountainous areas of SE Asia. It has reddish hair, a fluffy tail, and is considered rather cat-like due to its long backbone and slender limbs. The dhole is endangered with less than 2500 individuals, and suffers from habitat loss, human conflict, disease transmission from domestic dogs, and conflict with tigers and leopards. This little-known dog species has not attracted public and scientific attention like larger species. Learn more about the dhole from the Dhole Conservation Fund. 

What can you do to help endangered dogs and other species?

There are many things you can do now to help endangered species survive. Here are five tips:

1. Learn about endangered species by reading, watching educational wildlife videos, and visiting wildlife refuge parks. The more you know, the more you will care.

2. Make your home wildlife friendly. Provide food and shelter for native wildlife, and don't use harmful chemicals in your yard.

3. Slow down and remain alert when driving. Many animals die when hit by cars.

4. Protect the planet. Recycle and buy sustainable products. Never purchase products made from threatened or endangered species.

5. Protect wildlife habitats. You can do this by supporting wildlife conservation organizations, parks, and measures to protect natural and open areas.

For more information, check out these tips from the Endangered Species Coalition. 

Blue Toby was formed to give back to animals in need and support environmental conservation. We are doing our part to create sustainably produced pet products that last for years - keeping pet beds out of the landfill!