6 Dog Breeds That Look Like Coyotes But Are Good Pets

Written by Angie Menjivar
Published: January 31, 2024
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Coyotes are known for being tricksters, luring unsuspecting dogs to their packs by pretending to befriend them. Though they may look and act friendly at times, they’re not the types of animals you want to approach. Anita Koziarski, who works for the Town of Cary Animal Services in Cary, NC warns, “If you see a coyote, keep a safe distance. Protect your home by keeping trash bins sealed. Protect pets by keeping them indoors, especially at night.” Although you can’t exactly cuddle up with a coyote (even though they may seem nice), some dogs look a lot like them, and you can call them your own. Discover six dog breeds that look like coyotes but make good pets!

6 Dog Breeds That Look Like Coyotes But Are Good Pets

1. Tamaskan

Two Tamaskan dogs sitting in the garden during daytime

This pup looks a lot like a coyote but is devoted, unlike the untamable tricksters.

©Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock.com

The Tamaskan dog is known for its loyal and devoted temperament and its unique appearance, which makes it look much like a coyote. These pups grow to weigh anywhere between 80 and 90 pounds and are generally friendly, high-energy, and intelligent. They’re relatively easy to train and get along well with their human counterparts, including young children. These dogs don’t do a whole lot of barking, but they do get separation anxiety, so they shouldn’t be left alone for long periods. Their coat color varies and may be brown, gray, fawn, black, white, or a combination of colors.

2. Siberian Husky

If the coat colors are just right,

Siberian

huskies look much like coyotes.

©iStock.com/Irina Vasilevskaia

According to the American Kennel Club, the Siberian husky is known for its mischievous, friendly, and loyal nature. These dogs grow to weigh between 50 and 60 pounds and have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. They’re extremely affectionate with their family and are fantastic pets in homes with small children. They’re also great companions for other dogs. These are graceful pups with unmistakable expressions. Their coat colors range and may be a combination of different tones. However, when they are brown and white or agouti and white, they most resemble coyotes.

3. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog running down a path

The Czechoslovakian wolfdog is a loyal pup that thrives alongside a highly active owner.

©Best dog photo/Shutterstock.com

The Czechoslovakian wolfdog is highly intelligent and loyal. These dogs can grow to weigh between 44 and 57 pounds and have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. They are extremely affectionate but they’re not always great with young children or other dogs. These are powerful dogs that are happy to join you on your adventures. They have the stamina and endurance needed for highly active adults. Although they make great companions, the American Kennel Club does not recommend this breed for first-time owners.

4. Saarloos Wolfdog

Saarloos Wolfdog on the river stones

Creeping much like a coyote, the Saarloos might have you fooled. But these pups make great pets for the right owner!

©gloverk/Shutterstock.com

The Saarloos wolfdog is another pup that looks a lot like a coyote. It’s a cross between the Eurasian gray wolf and a German shepherd, which is why they have such a unique look. These dogs make great pets for those who have experience with dog ownership. The Saarloos wolfdog is loving and affectionate but also highly active and incredibly powerful. Once they’re fully grown, they typically weigh between 70 and 90 pounds and stand tall between 24 and 30 inches.

These dogs may be gray, red, and white. When they have the right environment and the right owner who offers plenty of understanding and proper training, these dogs thrive. Since they’re so intelligent, training them is a lot easier than it would be with another type of dog. But they are needy, and they want your attention. So, you need to be firm and consistent and not let their stubbornness control you.

5. Utonagan Dog

Utonagan in the snow

The Utonagan dog can grow to weigh over 100 pounds and needs a high-energy environment to thrive.

©Binson Calfort/Shutterstock.com

This pup is known for its even temper. It’s a friendly dog that has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They can grow to weigh between 55 and 110 pounds so be prepared because this dog can get quite large. The Utonagan dog is super friendly, even in homes with children. They’re also highly intelligent and have tons of effervescent energy, which may make training a little bit difficult.

Their coat color may be gray, black, or white. Not only is this a big dog, but you’re also going to be dealing with a big personality. If you need a working dog, this is a fantastic choice. This is not the dog for a quiet, tidy home. This is the dog for a home with lots of energy because this pup has plenty of it to burn.

6. Alaskan Malamute

Young six months old Alaskan Malamute dog close up portrait at the sea.

Alaskan malamutes love executing jobs and then kicking back with their family at home.

©pio3/Shutterstock.com

The Alaskan malamute is an ultra-playful and affectionate dog. This is the type of pup that shows devotion but don’t expect it to be affectionate all day long. It’s only moderately affectionate with its family, including with children and any other dogs. These dogs grow to weigh between 75 and 85 pounds and have a 10 to 14-year life expectancy. Alaskan malamutes are hard-working and when they get their energy out, they can settle in for a cuddle. This is the type of dog you have to be extra firm with starting in puppyhood because they need to respect you to follow through with obedience. When they are provided with the right nurturing environment, they are gentle and friendly and make wonderful companions in family homes.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

Angie Menjivar is a writer at A-Z-Animals primarily covering pets, wildlife, and the human spirit. She has 14 years of experience, holds a Bachelor's degree in psychology, and continues her studies into human behavior, working as a copywriter in the mental health space. She resides in North Carolina, where she's fallen in love with thunderstorms and uses them as an excuse to get extra cuddles from her three cats.

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