African Wild Dogs Care for Their Elderly

Image via Wikipedia

Though we tend to see human-like characteristics in our dogs, that’s not always the case. Yes, dogs seem to be able to feel guilt, empathy, and other emotions typical for humans, but there are many things they don’t do exactly like us.

A look at the behavior of African wild dogs reveals something interesting. They practice behaviors that are not typical in the animal kingdom, such as caring for elderly or ill pack members.

This species, native to sub-Saharan Africa, lives in packs that closely resemble families. A pack stays together for as long as their members are alive and they are devoted to keeping everyone safe and fed.

Young pack members go hunting but they share meat with every dog of the pack, even those who can’t help in gathering food.