In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified the world’s first known dog-fox hybrid, a rare crossbreed resulting from the mating of a domestic dog and a fox. The unique hybrid, affectionately dubbed the “dogxim,” was discovered in Brazil and represents a significant advancement in genetic science.
The extraordinary animal was first brought to the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul veterinary hospital in 2021 after being struck by a vehicle. Veterinary staff were initially perplexed by the animal’s appearance, which bore traits of both a dog and a fox, rendering its species identification challenging.
The unusual case prompted the involvement of scientists from nearby universities, who conducted genetic analyses to determine the animal’s origins. Their findings confirmed that the hybrid was a product of a pampas fox and a domestic dog, making it the first known example of such a crossbreed.
The hybrid, known informally as “graxorra” and “dogxim,” derives its names from the Portuguese term “graxaim-do-campo” for the pampas fox and the word “cachorra,” meaning female dog. The dogxim was characterized by its dark fur and large, pointed ears, typical of foxes, but with distinct canine features.
During her time at the veterinary hospital, the dogxim exhibited behaviors that reflected a blend of both parent species. Initially, she was cautious around humans and preferred hunting live rodents over accepting food from caregivers. Flavia Ferrari, a conservationist who worked closely with the hybrid, described her as “an amazing animal” with a temperament that was neither entirely docile like a dog nor as aggressive as a wild canid. Ferrari noted that while the animal was shy and wary, it seemed to become more comfortable over time.
Unfortunately, the dogxim passed away earlier this year due to unknown causes. Nonetheless, her case provides valuable insights into interspecies breeding and the genetic potential for creating hybrids between domesticated animals and their wild counterparts. Experts speculate that if the dogxim had not been neutered during her treatment, she might have been capable of reproducing.
This discovery marks a notable achievement in the field of genetics, highlighting the possibilities and complexities of hybridization between different genera.
