Can Coyotes Breed With Dogs?

Yes.

Coyotes can breed with dogs and create fertile offspring, which is also called a coydog. Coyotes are related to dogs, wolves, and foxes and can interbreed with all of them.

However, coyotes are very seasonal breeders, where dogs are not. They also don’t tend to breed very often.

For that reason, it’s not very likely to see a coydog in an urban setting. Unless you live in an area where lots of coyotes interact with dogs—like many states in the United States, and especially around Nevada or Arizona.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Part Coyote

Coydogs look very similar to regular dogs. But, if you take a closer look, you will be able to spot some coyote-like features that dogs don’t usually have.

Here are some common physical characteristics of coydogs:

• A long tail that curls downward in a “c” shape when running.
• Long and pointed teeth.
• A long and thin nose.
• A reddish-yellowish coat of hair.

Aside from physical characteristics, a coydog is more likely to be shy and timid.

A good sign that your dog may be a part coyote is if he has a couple of these coyote-like characteristics together.

You may not be able to clearly see those characteristics until your dog is fully grown, though. When your dog is around 1-2 years old, you should be able to spot these signs and be more confident that your dog is a part coyote.

To be 100% sure, however, you’ll have to opt for using a DNA test. If you are interested in one, you can read more here.