Ever wondered what you get when a dog and a coyote have puppies? That’s a coydog. A coydog happens when a male coyote mates with a female dog, so you get a creature with a bit of both worlds. These hybrids are pretty rare, but honestly, they’re fascinating—wild instincts mixed with a dash of domestic dog personality.
Coydogs have been around for ages, even before Europeans set foot in America. They show off a mix of wild and domestic looks and behaviors, which makes them unusual and honestly a bit tricky to care for if you ever run into one.
Curious about what sets these hybrids apart? Keep reading—there’s a lot to take in about their history, looks, and the way they act.
What Is a Dog Crossed With a Coyote Called?
When a domestic dog and a coyote breed, you get a hybrid with traits from both parents. People have given these mixes special names and noticed their unique features.
If you want to know what folks call them and how they come about, you’re definitely not alone.
Coydog Definition and Origins
We call the offspring of a domestic dog and a coyote a Coydog. This animal blends physical features and behaviors from both sides.
Coydogs usually have pointy ears, lean bodies, and those sharp, alert eyes—kind of a wild and tame mash-up.
Coyotes and dogs have crossed paths and bred for a long time in places where they both live. Still, Coydogs don’t show up often because coyotes only breed during certain months, and their social lives are pretty different from dogs.
Dogote vs. Coydog: Common Names
Sometimes people use the word Dogote, which means the mom is a coyote and the dad is a dog. But honestly, most people use Coydog for any mix, no matter which parent is which.
There’s no official breed club or anything for these hybrids, so the names stay informal, but everyone knows what you mean if you mention a Coydog.
Hybridization Process
Coyotes and dogs can only mate when their breeding times overlap. Coyotes usually mate between January and March, while dogs can go into heat at different times.
If a female dog happens to be in heat during coyote mating season, a male coyote might mate with her. That’s how Coydogs come about.
Since both animals are part of the Canis genus, they can actually have fertile puppies, but it’s not something you see every day.
This process is unpredictable. A lot of Coydogs end up with wild traits—tons of energy, and sometimes they’re suspicious of people, which can make them tough pets.
There are definitely concerns about their behavior and whether you can legally own one.
Want more details? Check out the Coydog hybrid animal article.
Coydog Traits, Care, and Ownership
A coydog is a really interesting mix, showing off traits from both coyotes and domestic dogs. They need special care because of their size, intelligence, and wild instincts.
Getting to know their appearance, behavior, health, and what they need day-to-day makes a big difference if you want to care for one.
Physical Characteristics and Appearance
Coydogs usually fall in the medium to large range, weighing anywhere from 60 to 120 pounds. They’re about 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their coats can look totally different—sometimes solid black, white, or brown, and sometimes with patterns like brindle or agouti. Their fur can be short or thick, and you’ll often see a denser undercoat, just like a coyote’s.
You’ll notice tall, pointed ears and almond-shaped eyes that are often amber or dark brown. They’ve got a muscular build, too.
Their tails and markings can really stand out, showing off the mix of coyote and dog. Regular grooming is a must, especially when they start shedding with the seasons.
Temperament and Behavior
Coydogs have strong hunting instincts and a sharp mind. Training them can be tricky, but if you’re patient, it’s worth it.
They tend to be independent and sometimes a little dominant, so you’ll want to set clear boundaries.
Socially, they’re a mix of coyote pack life and the loyalty you see in dogs. They make all kinds of sounds—howls, yips, and barks—so don’t be surprised if you hear some wild noises.
At home, they can form close bonds but need early and ongoing socialization with other animals and people. That helps cut down on their natural wariness.
Coydog Diet and Exercise Needs
Because they’re big and super active, coydogs need a high-protein diet with plenty of good nutrients. Think along the lines of what working dogs eat—lots of protein and healthy fats to keep up their energy and muscle.
Exercise is huge for them. Coydogs need daily, intense activity—running, scent games, or anything that challenges their body and mind.
If they don’t get enough exercise, they get bored and might start causing trouble around the house. Mixing up physical workouts with training sessions keeps their brains busy, too.
Health and Lifespan
Coydogs usually live somewhere between 10 and 14 years. Take them to the vet often for vaccinations and checkups.
Because they’re hybrids, coydogs might run into some unique health quirks. Still, they don’t seem to have more problems than most other big dogs.
Brush their teeth regularly—nobody wants dental disease sneaking up on their pup. Grooming helps keep their skin and coat in good shape.
If you’re working with a coydog breeder or someone who knows these hybrids well, you’ll get a better idea of what genetic health risks to watch for. That’s always a good move for your dog’s long-term well-being.
Curious about the coydog lifestyle? You can find more tips and info in this Coydog breed guide.
