African wild dogs are highly social pack hunters whose welfare in captivity depends critically on stable, appropriate social groupings.
African wild dog welfare in captivity hinges entirely on social management. These are among the most socially dependent carnivores — isolated individuals or disrupted packs show rapid welfare deterioration. Captive management must maintain stable pack structures, introduce new individuals carefully, and avoid unnecessary social disruption. Enclosures must provide space for the high locomotor activity natural to the species, with varied terrain and opportunities for natural social behaviours including greeting displays and communal resting. Zoo staff must develop deep familiarity with individual pack dynamics to detect early signs of social disruption. Conservation significance adds weight to the welfare investment required.