Is a coyote a dog? Or is a dog a coyote?

Coyotes and dogs are distinct but closely related species. They both belong to the Canidae family, which also includes other species like wolves and foxes. Here’s a breakdown of their relationship:

Coyotes (*Canis latrans*) are wild animals native to North America. They have distinct behaviors and adaptations that suit their life in the wild. Coyotes have a varied diet that can include small mammals, fruits, and carrion, and they are known for their adaptability to different environments, including urban areas.Coyotes howling in a pack in the middle of the night is not unusual in our Boulder Suburban Neighborhoods. We’re hearing them nightly.

Dogs (*Canis lupus familiaris*), on the other hand, are domesticated descendants of wolves. Dogs have been selectively bred by humans over thousands of years for various purposes, including hunting, herding, protection, and companionship. This has resulted in a wide variety of breeds with different sizes, shapes, and temperaments.Golden Retrievers are Known For Their Wonderful Disposition

While they share a common ancestor and can interbreed under certain circumstances, producing what are known as “coydogs,” it’s important to note that such crossings are rare and generally discouraged due to the challenges of raising and socializing these hybrids.

Coyotes and dogs are distinct but closely related species. They both belong to the Canidae family, which also includes other species like wolves and foxes. Here’s a breakdown of their relationship:

Coyotes  (*Canis latrans*) are wild animals native to North America. They have distinct behaviors and adaptations that suit their life in the wild. Coyotes have a varied diet that can include small mammals, fruits, and carrion, and they are known for their adaptability to different environments, including urban areas.

Dogs (*Canis lupus familiaris*), on the other hand, are domesticated descendants of wolves. Dogs have been selectively bred by humans over thousands of years for various purposes, including hunting, herding, protection, and companionship. This has resulted in a wide variety of breeds with different sizes, shapes, and temperaments.

While they share a common ancestor and can interbreed under certain circumstances, producing what are known as “coydogs,” it’s important to note that such crossings are rare and generally discouraged due to the challenges of raising and socializing these hybrids.

In essence, a coyote is not a dog, and a dog is not a coyote. They are separate species with their own unique characteristics and roles in the natural and human worlds.

Coyotes in my experience do not have the same temperament and upbringing as a house pet domesticated dog. While dogs are generally domesticated, coyotes are the opposite. Do not confuse these cuties with Lassie or your pet poodle. The poodle is a dog, and is also Coyote dinner! 

Coyotes Have Earned and Deserve A WIDE Berth. They Are Generally No Afraid of People

In essence, a coyote is not a dog, and a dog is not a coyote. They are separate species with their own unique characteristics and roles in the natural and human worlds.

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Leonard Frieling Pen Of Justice

• Multi-published and syndicated blogger and author.
• University lectures at University. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels. Numerous lectures for the NORML Legal Committee
• Former Judge
• Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee, Distinguished Counsel Circle.
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• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
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• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
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