Canidae

Canidae is a family of carnivorous mammals within the order Carnivora that includes domestic dogs, wolves, foxes, jackals, coyotes, dholes, and raccoon dogs. Members range from the small fennec fox to the large gray wolf, and they occupy a wide array of habitats worldwide. The domestic dog is a subspecies of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) and is one of the most variable mammal species in morphology and behavior.

The family comprises about 35 species in several genera, including Canis (wolves, dogs, jackals, coyotes), Vulpes (true foxes), Nyctereutes (raccoon dog), Cuon (dholes), and Lycaon (African wild dog). They typically have a slender skull, elongated snout, nonretractile claws, and a dentition suited to slicing meat. Senses are highly developed, especially smell and hearing.

Social structure varies: wolves, coyotes, dingoes, and African wild dogs often form packs; foxes are more solitary or pair-based. Communication includes vocalizations such as howling, barks, and yips, plus scent marking. Reproduction: most species breed once a year; litter sizes range from 2 to 12.

Diet is diverse; many are primarily carnivorous, preying on small to large vertebrates; some species are omnivorous and take fruit, seeds, or insects. They are opportunistic, adapting to human-altered landscapes.

Canidae occur on most continents and in many habitats except Antarctica. Several species are of conservation concern due to habitat loss, disease, and conflicts with humans, including the African wild dog and some foxes.

The domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) was domesticated from gray wolves, and its long association with humans has produced extensive behavioral and morphological diversity.