With so many dog breeds to choose from, how do you know which is right for you? Some people may choose based on looks, while others pick their favorite based on skillset. Breeds, like the labrador retriever and greyhound, are incredible at hunting. Dog owners who are passionate about the sport make sure to have a four-legged friend who can help get the job done.
A pair of dogs joined their owners during an afternoon excursion into the desert of South Africa. One was a greyhound, while the other was a Saluki. On their trip, they were tasked with taking down one of the fastest animals in the world – a gazelle.
Take a Look at the Shocking Video Below!
If healthy and developed, Salukis can run as fast as 42 mph and travel two to three miles quickly. Greyhounds are commonly regarded as the fastest dog breed. They were initially bred as hunting dogs. Greyhounds have been employed in dog racing for many years. Given their enormous level of energy, it is not surprising that they can move at a speed of up to 45 mph on their legs.
The two canines are seen sprinting effortlessly after a helpless gazelle. In the wild, gazelles are on the menu for several predators, including big cats such as lions. Gazelles are capable of sustained speeds of 30 to 40 mph and short surges of up to 60 mph. When sprinting, gazelles perform a bounding leap known as “pronking” or “stotting,” in which all four feet are stiffly propelled into the air.
A Close Call
In a video captured by who we assume to be the dog owner, we see a shocking race for life. It starts in the middle of the action with a gazelle running from the greyhound and Saluki. As they race through the open plain, there comes a peak when it appears like one of the canines is going to catch the gazelle.
Hunting dogs use their noses, hearing, and sight to find possible prey, ranging in size from the smallest terrier to the largest Irish wolfhound. Due to this sense, these creatures have historically been prized by hunters as well as by law enforcement, the military, and search-and-rescue agencies.
The same intellect, tenacity, and bravery instilled into these dogs can occasionally cause problems for pet owners who are unaware of the mental and physical requirements of a hunting dog. Each hunting dog breed was bred with the ability to locate, track, capture, and recover a specific prey animal.
This footage keeps you on the edge of your seat! We won’t give any spoilers away, as it’s a fantastic watch. Seeing domesticated animals interact with wild animals doesn’t always end well. Thankfully for this duo, they came out unscathed. Can the same be said for the gazelle?
The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/StuPorts
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