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7 Dog Breeds That Look Like Coyotes

Coyote in nature

The irresistible appearance of coyotes urged several people to domesticate them. However, this experiment didn’t yield much success due to the destructive behavior of this canine. Consequently, the services of breeders were used to develop dog breeds that look like coyotes. The following is a list of dogs that resemble the appearance of a coyote.  

Czech Wolfdog

Czech Wolfdog laying on boulder in nature

This dog breed was developed by cross-breeding German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves. The basic goal was to merge the intelligence and temperament of the German shepherd with the strength of a wolf.

Czech Wolfdog was originally bred for hunting, but it has been used for a lot of different purposes. Although it is a wolfdog, several physical characteristics of this breed match up with coyotes.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs are very loyal and form a strong bond with their families. However, they require experienced owners and a high level of training to feed their curious minds. For this reason, they are best suited for large open spaces. Similarly, they require proper socialization to exhibit good behavior with children and other pets.    

Kugsha

Also known as Amerindian Malamute, this dog breed originates from North America. Kugsha is the result of interbreeding North American wolves with dogs. Although it is not a coydog, the sleek body of Kugsha closely resembles with coyotes. This ancient breed is strongly built and was used to haul heavy shipments through the snow, in Early America.

The never-ending energy of these born travelers makes them difficult to train because they need constant stimulation. Likewise, their predatory nature makes them unsuitable for families with children and other pets. Having said that, this intelligent (but stubborn) breed can be an excellent companion under strong leadership.   

Saarlos Wolfdog

Saarlos Wolfdogs in a snowy field

Leendert Saarloos (a Dutch breeder) came up with this breed in 1935, when he crossbred German Shepherds with European Wolves. Saarloos Wolfdog is probably the dog breed that is most similar to coyotes. These canines have slim bodies, elongated face and legs, and even the color of their fur matches with a coyote. The only difference is the size as these wolfdogs are much larger.

These working dogs can become amazing family pets only if you’re an experienced owner. Their free-roaming instincts and abundant supply of energy cannot be handled in an apartment. Therefore, you will need open living spaces to accommodate a Saarloos Wolfdog. Similarly, they have a shy nature and require proper socialization to avoid negative behavior.     

Shikoku Ken

Shikoku Ken in yard with bushes and plants

This spitz-type dog is a cousin of Shiba Inu and Akita Inu, well-known Japanese breeds. Shikoku Kens have a long face, curly tail, and pointy ears. In addition to these similarities, the fur color of these canines also matches with a coyote’s coat. Shikoku is not very popular outside of Japan, but some breeders do acknowledge its playful attitude.

The friendly and sociable nature of these dogs allows them to make great family pets. However, the working background of this breed can make it difficult to accommodate them in apartments. They need a considerable amount of physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and frustration. Likewise, Shikoku Kens will chase every small creature because they have a very high prey drive.     

Samoyed

Samoyed walking on road with snow on sides

This Russian dog breed takes its name from the Samoyedic people of Siberia. Samoyeds were originally developed for herding reindeers and hauling sleds. These strong canines also accompanied their nomadic owners in hunting, tracking, and pack hiking. The “Sammy Smile” is one of their most popular features because of the contrast between their white coat and black lips.

Samoyeds have a lively and devoted personality that allows them to become good companions. They are an ideal alternative for families who have small children.

These playful canines love to please their people and would enjoy every moment of your company. The only trouble with them is that they are prone to various congenital health problems, like diabetes and kidney disease.  

Tamaskan

Tamaskan laying on sandy beach

Tamaskan is one of those dog breeds that was specifically bred to look like wolves. It is a mix of Husky, German Shepherd, and Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs. Other than wolves, the pointy ears and sleek bodies also make them look like coyotes. Although this new breed is rare and was officially recognized in 2013, the popularity of Tamaskans is growing continuously.

These canines can make an excellent family dog and are particularly good with children. However, they need a very high amount of daily exercise and can become destructive if they don’t get enough stimulation.

Similarly, separation anxiety is also quite common with this breed and you shouldn’t leave them alone for longer spells. If you’re willing to provide proper training, early socialization, and sufficient exercise, a Tamaskan makes a wonderful companion.  

Utonagan

Utonagan standing in snow.

The Utonagan was bred in England by mixing Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and German Shepherd. The primary goal of developing this breed was to produce a wolf-looking dog but it also resembles a coyote. For instance, the shape of their face and ears is quite similar to that of coyotes.

Even though they were not bred for any particular purpose, Utonagans are quite friendly and easy to train. They are quite fond of their people (including children) and are very receptive to their owners.

On the other hand, they have an energetic personality and will require significant stimulation to stay satisfied. However, Utonagans are much more suited for cold weather and you should be careful about exercising them in the heat.   

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