Hyenas are often mistaken for dogs due to some shared physical characteristics and behaviors. Despite these superficial similarities, hyenas are not part of the dog family. This article clarifies the true biological lineage of hyenas and highlights the unique traits that distinguish them.
Not a Canine: The Hyena’s True Lineage
Hyenas belong to the family Hyaenidae, a distinct group of carnivorous mammals. This places them within the suborder Feliformia, which encompasses “cat-like” carnivorans, including true cats, civets, and mongooses. Conversely, dogs, wolves, and foxes are members of the family Canidae, falling under the suborder Caniformia, or “dog-like” carnivorans.
The split between Feliformia and Caniformia occurred approximately 50 to 55 million years ago, during the Eocene epoch. While both lineages evolved from a common carnivorous ancestor, they developed independently. This ancient separation underscores that any resemblances between hyenas and dogs are a result of convergent evolution, where unrelated species develop similar traits due to adapting to similar environments or ecological roles.
Dispelling the Myth: Why Hyenas Are Often Mistaken for Dogs
Several factors contribute to the belief that hyenas are a type of dog. Their physical appearance, particularly that of the spotted hyena, often causes this confusion. Hyenas possess a dog-like muzzle shape and non-retractable claws, which aid in running and making sharp turns. The robust build of a spotted hyena can also superficially resemble a large canine.
Beyond physical traits, certain behaviors of hyenas, especially spotted hyenas, resemble those of dog species. Spotted hyenas live in complex social groups called clans, which can number up to 130 individuals. These clans engage in cooperative hunting, a behavior often associated with wolf packs. Their varied vocalizations, including the well-known “laugh,” whoops, grunts, and groans, might also be misconstrued as dog-like sounds.
Beyond Appearances: Unique Hyena Traits
Despite superficial similarities, hyenas possess distinctive biological characteristics that set them apart from dogs. Spotted hyenas are renowned for their powerful jaws, capable of generating an impressive bite force of around 1,100 pounds per square inch (PSI). This enables them to crush bones and access nutrient-rich marrow, a feeding strategy unique among carnivores and a capability dogs lack. Their digestive system is also highly adapted to process almost all parts of a carcass, including bone.
Spotted hyena society is distinctly matriarchal, with females being larger and dominating males. Females are more aggressive and lead both hunting and territorial defense within the clan. This social structure contrasts significantly with most canine species, where male leadership or more egalitarian dynamics are common.
A unique anatomical feature of female spotted hyenas is the pseudo-penis, an elongated clitoris through which they urinate, copulate, and give birth. This structure is highly unusual among mammals and serves as a means for females to control mating, ensuring male cooperation. Hyenas also have a distinctive sloping back, with their forelegs appearing longer than their hind legs, contributing to a powerful, loping gait suitable for endurance hunting. This posture results from their high shoulders and powerful neck musculature.