Raccoon Dog

Meet the Raccoon Dog

A stocky canid with dark facial markings; it is not a raccoon. The scientific name used in this profile is Nyctereutes procyonoides.

Range and habitat

East Asia; introduced populations occur in Europe. Typical settings include woodland, wetlands and mixed landscapes. Presence is not uniform throughout a named region; historical range and current distribution may differ.

Observe the ecology

Look at the relationship between food, cover, movement and human land use. A canid's social system and daily activity depend on species and local conditions. A zoo photograph cannot describe the entire natural range.

Conservation and coexistence

Introduced populations and wildlife trade need region-specific management and welfare consideration.

Use specialist assessments for current population trends and threat categories. This page deliberately avoids treating a conservation category as permanent. Follow site-specific guidance when visiting protected areas.

Wildlife, not companion animals

Do not feed, approach or attempt to handle wild canids. Keep domestic dogs under appropriate control near wildlife, secure food waste and observe from a distance. Support habitat protection and qualified conservation organizations.

Read critically

Species names and boundaries may change with new evidence. Record the source and date when comparing references, and distinguish a species from a domestic breed, a regional population or a hybrid.