While they share some similarities with dogs, such as their appearance and social behavior, they belong to their own distinct family: Hyaenidae.
Here are some key differences between hyenas and dogs:
* Physical differences: Hyenas have a more robust build with a shorter, more powerful head. Their legs are also longer and their back is sloping.
* Social structure: Hyenas are highly social animals that live in complex, hierarchical packs. Dog packs are generally less structured.
* Diet: Hyenas are mostly scavengers, but they also hunt. Dogs are primarily carnivores but can also be omnivorous.
So, while they might be close relatives in the broader sense, hyenas and dogs are separate branches of the carnivore family tree.