Stray dog
Canis familiaris familiaris

PRESENTATION OF THE SPECIES

Scientific name: Canis familiaris
Origin: Asia, domesticated more than 15,000 years ago
Presence in the Caribbean: Found on all islands; stray and feral populations are common, including inside protected areas
Size: Highly variable (30 to 70 cm at the shoulder on average)
Weight: 10 to 40 kg on average, sometimes more
Diet: Opportunistic carnivore (mammals, birds, reptiles, invertebrates, human waste)

Stray dogs in the Caribbean

Introduced by European settlers, dogs are now present throughout the insular Caribbean. In addition to domestic pets, many populations of stray or feral dogs live partially or entirely independent of humans.

These dogs pose a particular problem in natural protected areas, where they may hunt or disturb native wildlife. Their impacts are often underestimated, despite significant threats to biodiversity and health.

Management and perception

Managing stray dogs is a significant challenge. Culling is sometimes practiced but remains socially controversial. More commonly, management relies on sterilization and vaccination programs to limit population growth, awareness campaigns to prevent abandonment and reduce feeding, and responsible pet ownership to control reproduction and limit impacts on biodiversity.

What is CIMBA doing?

Within the CIMBA project, stray dogs are studied alongside other exotic mammalian predators. Their presence and activity in protected areas are monitored using camera traps, and their diet is analyzed to better understand their actual impact on local wildlife. The project also seeks to examine the interactions between dogs, cats, rats, and mongooses in order to anticipate the indirect effects of management actions targeting certain species. In addition, alternative tools, such as brightly colored collars or collars with bells to reduce hunting efficiency, are being tested as socially acceptable management options. Finally, the project includes a strong awareness-raising component aimed at local communities, highlighting the ecological and sanitary risks posed by stray dogs and encouraging more responsible management practices.