In the captivating world of canines, certain dog breeds boast a wild allure that mirrors the untamed spirit of their distant cousins, the coyote. These remarkable dogs not only exhibit a striking resemblance to these wily creatures, but they also carry unique traits and personalities that intrigue enthusiasts and adventurers alike. “7 Dog Breeds That Look Like Coyotes” takes you on a journey to explore these fascinating breeds, uncovering their wild aesthetics and the blend of domesticity and wilderness they represent. Discover how these canine companions echo the call of the wild, yet remain loyal and loving friends.
Coyotes and dogs might share a family tree, but they’re like distant cousins who took completely different paths in life. Coyotes, with their slim build, sharp muzzles, flat foreheads, and bushy tails, are built for the wild. Their Latin name, Canis Latrans, even translates to “barking dog,” but don’t let that fool you—they’re a world apart from our furry, domesticated companions.
The biggest difference? Coyotes are wild animals, untamed and thriving in nature, while dogs have been our loyal sidekicks for thousands of years. That said, there are certain dogs out there that can make you do a double take—dogs so strikingly similar to coyotes that you might catch yourself wondering if your new neighbor owns a wild animal!
If you’re dreaming of adopting a dog with that sleek, wild coyote look but the heart of a loyal pet, you’re in luck. There are a few incredible breeds that resemble coyotes so closely it’s uncanny. Let’s dive in and meet seven amazing dog breeds that capture that untamed beauty!
Coyotes vs. Dogs in Physical Traits
Dogs and coyotes can share similar features—like coat colors in shades of brown, gray, black, or blonde—and even similar eye colors and sizes. Coyotes, however, have a unique build. Their thick coats, which grow denser in colder seasons, and their leggy, slender appearance set them apart.
One easy way to tell them apart is by looking at their front legs. A dog’s elbow sits higher than its chest line, while a coyote’s shallow chest makes its elbows appear lower. Unless you’re looking at a greyhound or a similar breed, which also has a leggy build, it’s usually pretty simple to spot the difference.
Comparing Coyote and Dog Diets
Coyotes might have a fierce reputation, but they’re more resourceful scavengers than relentless predators. Their diet depends on what’s available, ranging from small animals, livestock, and fish to berries and even grass. In tough conditions, like when a deer is weakened by snow, coyotes might team up to bring it down. They’ll also happily scavenge leftovers—they’re not picky eaters.
Dogs, on the other hand, live a very different life. While they might instinctively try to munch on anything they find (including things that would make your stomach turn), domestication has made their digestive systems more sensitive. Unlike the wild coyote, your pup’s meals are usually a steady diet of kibble or canned food. And of course, they live for those occasional treats!
How Coyotes and Dogs Act Differently
According to DFW Urban Wildlife, Coyotes are social creatures, though slightly less so than dogs and wolves. They rely on group dynamics, forming strong bonds to survive and work together effectively. These bonds—like loyalty, friendship, and family connections—help them overcome their natural predatory instincts, allowing them to coexist peacefully within their packs.
Coyotes and dogs share many behaviors, from playing and greeting to scent marking. Both species communicate through body language and habits like scratching the ground after eliminating or marking their territory. Like your dog carefully takes a treat without biting your fingers, coyotes also respect boundaries within their groups, reinforcing their social connections.
Despite their wild nature, coyotes show behaviors that reflect their strong emotional ties, much like our beloved dogs.
7 Dog Breeds That Resemble Coyotes
1. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz, often affectionately called “Finkies,” is a charming breed with a striking resemblance to coyotes. Standing between 17.5 and 20 inches tall and weighing up to 33 pounds, they have a sleek build paired with a thick, red-gold coat that mirrors the look of some coyotes. Their dense tails curl gracefully over their back, and their expressive dark brown eyes give them an endearing, almost mischievous appearance.
Unlike coyotes, Finnish Spitzes are incredibly affectionate and adore spending time with their families. They’re playful, curious, and wonderful with children, making them excellent companions. However, their spitz heritage gives them a bit of a strong-willed and independent streak. PetMd notes that these dogs were originally bred as “barking hunting dogs,” so you can expect a chatty pup that loves to express itself.
Active and social by nature, Finnish Spitzes need daily exercise, whether it’s a long walk, a trip to the park, or some backyard playtime. Their beautiful red-tinged double coat is relatively easy to maintain with weekly brushing, though they’ll need extra grooming during shedding seasons in spring and fall. Despite being a Nordic breed, they’re surprisingly adaptable and can thrive in both warm and cold climates—as long as they’re not exposed to extreme temperatures.
2. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are a beautiful breed with features that can easily remind you of coyotes. Their sharp, narrow muzzles, large pointed ears, and bushy tails give them a distinctly wild look, though their fluffier, thick coat immediately sets them apart. That thick fur isn’t just for show—it’s perfectly designed to protect them in the harsh winter climates they were bred for.
Originally developed by the Chukchi people of Northern Asia, Huskies were trained to pull sleds across icy tundras, and their endurance and strength remain legendary. Standing tall at 20 to 23.5 inches and weighing up to 60 pounds, they’ve become beloved family pets. Their playful and gentle nature makes them fantastic companions for children, and their energetic personalities mean they’re always up for an adventure.
AKC states that one of the most endearing traits of Huskies is their love for “talking.” Much like coyotes, they’re incredibly vocal and can spend hours howling, chatting, and making their opinions known. Despite their wild vibe, they’re relatively easy to train—as long as you start early and stay consistent. With their boundless energy, they thrive in active households where they have plenty of opportunities to burn it off.
3. Tamaskan
The Tamaskan dog, originating from Finland, is a breathtaking breed that was deliberately designed to capture the look of wolves—and they ended up looking a lot like coyotes too! With their almond-shaped eyes, streamlined build, bushy tails, and pointed ears, they have an undeniable resemblance to their wild counterparts. Their coat colors and facial features are especially coyote-like, giving them a distinctly untamed appearance.
A blend of Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and German Shepherd, the Tamaskan is both strong and elegant, standing tall at 24-28 inches and weighing between 55-88 pounds. While their striking looks give off a wild, rugged vibe, their temperament is the complete opposite. These dogs are known for their friendly, loyal, and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions and great additions to families.
That said, the Tamaskan is not for the couch potato lifestyle. These dogs have energy to spare and need plenty of exercise to keep both their bodies and minds happy. Whether it’s long walks, runs, or playtime, they thrive in active households where they can channel their energy.
4. Saarloos Wolf Dog
The Saarloos Wolfdog, a gorgeous breed from Holland, is the fascinating result of crossing German Shepherds with Siberian gray wolves. Further breeding with German Shepherds refined the breed, giving them their signature coyote-like appearance. With their lean, leggy build and height reaching up to 30 inches, they bear a notable resemblance to coyotes, though they’re generally larger, weighing between 80 and 90 pounds.
Originally bred as working dogs, Saarloos Wolfdogs are incredibly intelligent and brimming with energy. However, they’re not a breed for the inexperienced. These dogs are highly active and independent, making them a better fit for experienced owners who can provide plenty of space and opportunities for exploration. A small apartment just won’t cut it for these adventurous spirits.
Despite their wild looks, Saarloos Wolfdogs are surprisingly shy by nature. They need early and consistent socialization to grow into confident, well-rounded companions.
5. Czech Wolfdog
The Czech Wolfdog is a relatively new breed breed, born from crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves. The goal? To combine the intelligence and loyalty of the German Shepherd with the rugged resilience of a wolf. The result is a dog that’s not only striking but also highly versatile, originally bred for hunting and now excelling in various working roles.
While their lineage includes wolves, Czech Wolfdogs bear a striking resemblance to coyotes. Their lean, athletic build, standing at least 26 inches tall and weighing over 54 pounds, paired with their thick orange and gray coats, bushy tails, and piercing golden eyes, makes them look like they just stepped out of the wild.
Loyal to a fault, Czech Wolfdogs form deep bonds with their human families, but they’re not for the faint of heart. These dogs need experienced owners who can match their sharp intelligence and provide the training and mental stimulation they crave. They thrive in homes with plenty of space to roam and need early socialization to ensure they’re comfortable around kids and other pets.
6. Italian Wolfdog
The Italian Wolfdog, also known as the Lupo Italiano, is a stunning breed that resembles a coyote with its wolf-like muzzle, pointed ears, and powerful jaws. This large dog was created by crossing a female Apennine wolf with a male German Shepherd, resulting in a strong, intelligent working dog with a wild yet approachable appearance.
Known for their loyalty and sharp minds, Lupo Italianos excel in roles like search and rescue and are trusted by Italian police for sniffing out drugs and explosives. Despite their impressive work ethic, these dogs also form strong bonds with their human families. However, they can be naturally cautious around strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
The Lupo Italiano is lively, brave, and independent, but that independence means they require a confident and experienced owner. Training needs to be firm and consistent to establish leadership and ensure they thrive in a structured environment.
7. Akita Inu
The Akita is a majestic, powerful breed with roots in ancient Japan, renowned for its courage, loyalty, and dignified nature. If you’re searching for a dog that has a coyote-like look but the heart of a devoted companion, the Akita might just be your perfect match. These dogs are known for their fierce loyalty, forming incredibly strong bonds with their families, and their bravery is legendary—they’ve even been known to take on bears to protect their loved ones.
Much larger than a coyote, Akitas typically weigh between 70 and 130 pounds, making them not only striking but also excellent cuddle buddies on a chilly evening. Their thick, double coat comes in colors that often resemble a coyote’s, and their triangular ears and expressive, dark brown eyes add to their wild but lovable appearance.
Akitas are true “one-family” dogs—deeply devoted to their inner circle but naturally wary of strangers. They’re calm and composed, not overly playful as adults, except when they’re with their favorite humans. Britannica mentions that their protective instincts can sometimes make them overly cautious, and their strength and independence mean they’re not always the easiest dogs for children or elderly owners to handle.
Conclusion
In the world of domestic dogs, there are many dogs with a wolf-like appearance or features that make them look like a coyote. While this list focused on popular dog breeds like the Siberian Husky, Tamaskan, and Akita, other relatively new dog breeds, such as the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, also share similar physical attributes but didn’t make our list.
These breeds, along with other dogs like wolf hybrids, are often considered the most similar-looking breeds to wild canines like coyotes or wolves. However, their needs and temperaments may not suit first-time owners, as some can be aggressive or require experienced handling.
Though many dogs, including large-breed sled dogs and active family companions, have traits that make them look like a coyotes, not all are officially recognized by organizations like the American Kennel Club. Some breeds, like those discussed here, are perfect for families ready to meet their unique exercise and training needs.
Whether you’re drawn to their stunning appearance or their loyal nature, these dogs that look like wild canines make a fascinating addition to any home prepared for their spirited, adventurous personalities.
In conclusion, the fascinating resemblance between certain dog breeds and coyotes highlights the diverse spectrum of canine evolution and breeding. Breeds such as the Tamaskan, Shikoku, and Czechoslovakian Vlcak, among others, not only emulate the wild and sleek appearance of coyotes but also exhibit some of their agile and resilient characteristics. This similarity draws interest from enthusiasts who are captivated by these breeds’ unique aesthetic and lively demeanor while still wanting a domesticated companion. Understanding these breeds’ specific care requirements and temperaments is essential for responsible ownership and preserving their distinct traits.