The African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus), also known as the “painted wolf,” is a highly social canine species native to sub-Saharan Africa. This predator is easily recognized by its distinct mottled coat of black, white, brown, and yellow, which is unique to every individual. African wild dogs are among the continent’s most efficient hunters, a capability directly tied to their body size and structure. Understanding their weight provides insight into their cooperative pack dynamics and long-distance pursuit hunting strategy.
Adult Weight and Gender Differences
The adult African wild dog typically weighs between 18 and 36 kilograms (40 to 79 pounds). This range places them as the largest wild canine in Africa. The average weight in East Africa is often cited lower, around 20–25 kilograms, while individuals in southern Africa sometimes show higher means.
The weight of an African wild dog can fluctuate depending on the availability of prey. Males are generally slightly heavier than females, though the weight ranges of the sexes overlap significantly. Females are usually just 3–7% smaller than their male counterparts in body mass.
Physical Dimensions and Body Structure
The African wild dog’s weight is carried on a lean, muscular frame built for endurance running. They stand between 60 and 75 centimeters (24 to 30 inches) high at the shoulder. Their head-and-body length ranges from 71 to 112 centimeters (28 to 44 inches), with a tail adding an additional 29 to 41 centimeters.
The slender build and long legs contribute to their ability to cover vast distances quickly. Unlike most other canids, they possess only four toes on each foot, lacking the dewclaw; this adaptation increases their running stride. They are also characterized by large, rounded ears, which aid in radiating heat to regulate body temperature during intense activity.
Weight, Hunting, and Diet
The moderate weight and lean build of the African wild dog are optimized for stamina and speed rather than brute strength. Their body mass is perfectly suited for cooperative hunting, where the pack pursues prey until exhaustion. They can reach speeds of over 70 kilometers per hour in short bursts and maintain a chase for several kilometers.
Their high metabolic rate requires a substantial daily intake of meat, explaining their hypercarnivorous diet. A single dog can consume between 1.2 to 5.9 kilograms of prey daily, depending on food availability. The pack primarily targets medium-sized ungulates, such as impala and kudu calves, which are typically up to twice the wild dogs’ individual weight.