In 2021, the world's first known fox-dog hybrid was discovered in Brazil. The animal, named a 'dogxim,' was found after being struck by a car and taken to a veterinarian.
Upon discovery, the staff couldn't determine whether the young female was a dog or a fox. Scientists from local universities then conducted extensive genetic tests, revealing her unique heritage: she was a hybrid with a pampas fox mother and a domestic dog father.
This newfound creature exhibited an unusual combination of characteristics from both dogs and foxes.
She possessed distinct features like large pointy ears, thick wiry fur, an elongated, and a long thin snout.
While she initially exhibited wariness toward humans, she gradually warmed up to them and even allowed herself to be petted.
She was described as barking like a dog and sometimes playing with toys; however, she moved like a fox instead of a dog. Additionally, she refused regular food but opted for live rodents.
According to The Telegraph, Flávia Ferrari, a conservationist who worked with the animal during her recovery, stated:
'She was an amazing animal, really a hybrid between a pampas fox and a dog.
'It was not as docile as a dog, but it also lacked the aggressiveness expected of a wild canid when handled.
'She had a shy and cautious personality, generally preferring to stay away from people. Over the time she was hospitalized for treatment, I believe she started to feel safer.'
Dogxim is believed to be the first documented case of fox and dog hybridization.
According to a genetic test, it was revealed that Dogxim has 76 chromosomes, comprising 74 from a fox and 78 from a dog.
The team published their findings in the journal 'Animals' and suggested that there may be more instances of Dogxims in the wild.
Domestic dogs have previously interbred with wild species such as wolves, coyotes, and other wild dogs.
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