At first glance, a hyena and a dog may seem like polar opposites; one is a wild scavenger with an eerie laugh, the other a loyal companion curled up on your couch. But nature has a way of blurring the lines, and certain dog breeds bear an uncanny resemblance to their distant hyena lookalikes. From their distinctive coat patterns to their strong, agile builds, these dogs could easily be mistaken for their wild counterparts. Surprisingly, despite their visual similarities, hyenas are not even part of the canine family but belong to their own unique classification, the Hyaenidae.
The resemblance between some dog breeds and hyenas is more than just a coincidence; it often stems from evolutionary adaptations and shared survival traits. This fascinating connection makes these breeds stand out among their canine peers.
If you’re fascinated by dogs with a wild aesthetic, you might also enjoy learning about wolf-dog hybrids. Whether you’re drawn to their striking appearance or their spirited nature, these dogs offer a unique blend of the wild and the familiar, proving that nature’s designs are endlessly intriguing.
Dog Breeds That Look Like Hyenas
1. Shikoku
Often referred to as the “Japanese Wolfdog,” the Shikoku is a rare and striking breed with a wild, untamed aesthetic. Originally bred for hunting boar and deer in the rugged mountains of Japan’s Kochi Prefecture, this agile and resilient dog possesses a lean, muscular build and a thick double coat that enhances its resemblance to a wild canine.
With pointed ears, an alert expression, and a bushy tail, the Shikoku’s appearance mirrors that of its distant wolf ancestors, making it a standout among domestic breeds. Despite its fierce hunting background, the Shikoku is known for being more adaptable and trainable than some other Japanese breeds.
While it maintains an independent spirit, it is also eager to please and forms strong bonds with its family. This loyalty, combined with its intelligence, makes the breed an excellent companion for active households that can provide the mental and physical stimulation it craves.
Energetic and highly driven, the Shikoku thrives in environments where it has space to roam and a job to do. Its sharp instincts and high prey drive mean it requires proper training and socialization from an early age. However, with consistent guidance, the breed can develop into a well-mannered and devoted pet.
For those fascinated by dogs with an untamed allure, the Shikoku is a perfect example of nature’s seamless blend of domesticity and wilderness. With its captivating appearance and tenacious personality, this breed embodies the essence of a wild spirit within a loyal companion.
2. Bedlington Terrier
With its distinctive curly coat and arched back, the Bedlington Terrier is an unexpected but fitting addition to dogs that resemble hyenas. This breed was originally developed for hunting vermin in mines, giving it a tenacious and agile nature.
Though often compared to a lamb due to its soft fur and slender frame, its lean, muscular body and slightly hunched stance bear a striking similarity to the silhouette of a hyena.
Despite their mild-mannered appearance, Bedlington Terriers are energetic and intelligent dogs, as per PetMD, due to which they thrive in active homes. Their speed and endurance make them natural athletes, excelling in dog sports such as racing and agility. Like hyenas, they possess a strong prey drive, a remnant of their history as skilled hunters.
One of their most defining features is their coat, which is a mix of soft and wiry textures, adding to their unique look. Regular grooming keeps their fur in top condition, often styled in a way that enhances their already distinctive shape. While their resemblance to hyenas is more subtle than some breeds, their arched backs and slender legs create an undeniable connection.
Though spirited and playful, Bedlington Terriers are known to be affectionate with their families. Their combination of energy, intelligence, and a touch of wild charm makes them a standout in the world of dog breeds that echo the untamed beauty of hyenas.
3. Swedish Vallhund
With its compact build, sharp features, and thick double coat, the Swedish Vallhund bears a striking resemblance to a small, wild predator. Its grayish fur and agile frame give off a fox-like appearance, but its bold and confident personality aligns more with that of a hyena.
Bred for herding, this rare Scandinavian breed was historically used to drive cattle, its short legs providing an advantage in avoiding kicks from livestock.
The Swedish Vallhund’s expressive, upright ears and keen eyes add to its alert and intelligent demeanor. While its stature is small, it carries itself with the energy and determination of a much larger dog. Its distinctive coat and coloration enhance its resemblance to wild canines, making it one of the more striking breeds with a hyena-like allure.
Beyond appearances, this breed is known for its energetic and playful nature, as per PetMD. Highly trainable, Swedish Vallhunds excel in activities such as obedience and agility, showcasing their working-dog roots. Their lively spirit and adaptability make them excellent companions for active families who appreciate an adventurous and affectionate dog.
Despite their wild look, Swedish Vallhunds thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of a household. Their social and playful nature makes them well-suited for various dog sports and interactive training, ensuring they remain engaged and content.
4. Chow Chow
With its thick, fluffy mane and distinctive scowl, the Chow Chow might look more like a bear than a hyena at first glance. However, its stocky build, deep-set eyes, and slightly sloped back give it a wild, untamed appearance reminiscent of the spotted predators.
The breed’s unique stance and dignified gait only add to its mysterious, ancient look. Originating from China, Chow Chows were historically bred for guarding, a trait they still carry today.
Their aloof demeanor and strong territorial instincts make them reserved around strangers but fiercely loyal to their families. Unlike hyenas, which thrive in highly social packs, Chow Chows prefer their independence, often displaying a cat-like sense of self-sufficiency.
A well-socialized Chow Chow can be lovely, but they are not the type to fawn over their owners. Their dense double coat, which comes in shades of red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream, adds to their lion-like presence, making them one of the most striking breeds.
While their appearance is formidable, training and early socialization are key to managing their strong-willed personality. For those seeking a companion with an imposing yet regal look, the Chow Chow is an undeniable contender.
5. Löwchen
Often called the “Little Lion Dog,” the Löwchen earns its name from its signature grooming style, which enhances its resemblance to big cats. While its coat may not naturally mimic a hyena’s, the breed’s unique clipped mane and plumed tail can evoke the wild, untamed look of certain hyena species.
This rare toy breed has a long history of companionship and charm, making it a fascinating addition to this list. Beyond appearances, the Löwchen is known for its outgoing and affectionate personality, according to AKC.
Unlike the independent nature of many wild canines, these small yet sturdy dogs thrive on human interaction. Their playful energy and affection make them excellent companions for active owners, balancing elegance with an adventurous spirit.
Their intelligence and trainability further enhance their appeal, making them well-suited for families and individuals alike. While they may not share the hyena’s scavenging tendencies, they certainly share its energetic and dynamic nature.
Rare but undeniably captivating, the Löwchen is a breed that turns heads with its lion-like grooming and endearing demeanor. Whether bounding around playfully or resting at their owner’s side, these little dogs carry a big presence, proving that wild looks can come in small, affectionate packages.
6. Great Dane
The Great Dane, known for its towering height and powerful build, might not be the first breed that comes to mind when thinking of hyena look-alikes, but its lean frame and striking presence share some surprising similarities.
With a deep chest, long legs, and an imposing stance, this German mastiff breed was originally bred for hunting large game like deer and boar.
While hyenas have a distinctive sloped back and muscular forequarters, Great Danes exhibit a similarly elongated and athletic physique, giving them a commanding yet graceful gait.
Their coats, often seen in harlequin, brindle, or fawn, can sometimes resemble the speckled and mottled fur of hyenas, furthering the resemblance in certain lighting or at a distance. Despite their imposing size, some standing over 44 inches at the shoulder, Great Danes are affectionate, gentle giants.
Unlike the wild and scavenging nature of hyenas, these dogs are known for their loyal and friendly demeanor, often earning them the nickname “the Apollo of dogs.” Their sheer size and movement, however, make them a captivating sight, reminiscent of a wild creature roaming the savanna.
7. Czechoslovakian Vlcak
A striking blend of wild and domestic, the Czechoslovakian Vlcak was originally bred as a military working dog by crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves.
This hybrid heritage gives the breed its distinctive wolf-like appearance, including a lean, muscular build, thick coat, and piercing amber eyes. With its long legs and agile frame, the Vlcak moves with a fluid grace reminiscent of a hyena, adding to its untamed aesthetic.
Beyond its looks, this breed is highly intelligent and energetic, requiring plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Vlcaks are known for their strong pack instincts, forming deep bonds with their families but remaining reserved around strangers. Their high prey drive and independent nature make them best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training and firm leadership.
Despite their wild ancestry, Czechoslovakian Vlcaks can be affectionate and playful, thriving in active households that meet their exercise needs. They excel in endurance-based activities, such as hiking and agility, where their stamina and strength shine. However, their strong-willed personality means they are not ideal for first-time owners.
For those captivated by the wild essence of a wolf yet seeking the companionship of a dog, the Czechoslovakian Vlcak offers a perfect balance. With proper training and socialization, this striking breed proves to be a loyal, intelligent, and adventurous companion.
Conclusion
Dogs that resemble hyenas offer a fascinating glimpse into the wild while still being loyal, loving companions. From the wolf-like Czechoslovakian Vlcak to the sturdy and energetic African hunting dog, each breed brings a unique blend of strength, agility, and untamed beauty. Whether it’s their striking coats, lean builds, or alert expressions, these dogs capture the essence of wild animals like the striped hyena while remaining devoted pets for the right owners.
If you’re drawn to these extraordinary dogs, perhaps it’s time to consider adding one to your pack or at least admiring them from afar! African wild dogs, also called African painted dogs or Cape hunting dogs, share similar traits but are an endangered species. African wild dog populations in Southern Africa face threats, reminding us of the delicate balance between domestication and the wild. Can African wild dogs ever be tamed? Maybe not but their lookalike breeds certainly bring the wild closer to home. After all, who wouldn’t want a little bit of the wild running by their side?
