German Shepherd Coyote Mix: (Information, Pictures, & More)

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German shepherds are known for being versatile dogs that are great for a wide range of activities, from working as police or military dogs to providing companionship for their families. But what happens when you mix a German shepherd with another type of canine?

This article will provide all the information you need about the coyote German Shepherd Mix

We’ll discuss the breed’s history, appearance, temperament, feeding needs, exercise, and health issues. Plus, we’ll include pictures of this amazing crossbreed so that you can see what they look like. Let’s get started!

Can a dog be mixed with a coyote?

Yes, coyotes and dogs can mate and produce offspring, although this is not common in the wild since their habitats do not often overlap. However, there are many coyote-dog hybrids in captivity. These animals are often called “coydogs.”

Coydogs sometimes have more coyote DNA than dog DNA, but this can vary depending on which parent is which species. 

Read Also: Shepherd Hound Mix — German Shepherd Basset Hound Mix

Coyotes are often considered to be pests, but some people appreciate them for their intelligence and resourcefulness. A growing movement of people believe coyotes should be considered valuable ecosystem members.

One way to help achieve this goal is to breed coyotes with domestic dogs. While mixed-breed dogs are not typically considered purebreds, they can still be registered with any Club organization.

Mixed-breed dogs have many of the same benefits as purebreds, including increased intelligence and a more even temperament. In addition, mixed-breed dogs are less likely to suffer from health problems than purebreds.

As a result, breeding coyotes with domestic dogs can help create a new generation of healthier, more intelligent animals.

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What is German Shepherd Coyote Mix?

The Coyote German Shepherd mix, also known as Shepherd Coyote, is a hybrid dog resulting from crossing a German Shepherd with a Coyote. This crossbreed inherits the best physical and personality traits from both parent breeds.

Combining the intelligence and adaptability of the Coyotes with the loyalty and obedience nature of the German Shepherds, the Coyote Shepherd is an energetic and excellent family companion.

Coyote German Shepherd Mix History and Origin

There is no proper documentation of where or when this mix was first bred, but we guess it was first bred in the United States. This is due to many unprofessional backyard breeders and coyote-dog hybrids in captivity.

However, most people believed that Coyote-dog hybrids were bred to create a new generation of healthier, fast, and more intelligent animals. We also believe this breed has existed for quite some time.

We must look at the individual parent breeds to learn more about this Coydog.

An Overview and history of the German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a popular breed of dog developed in Germany in the 19th century.

The breed was created by Max von Stephanitz, who used a variety of traditional German herding dogs to produce a dog suited for herding sheep and other livestock.

The German Shepherd is a medium to a large-sized dog with a height of 22-26 inches and a weight of 50-90 pounds. The breed has a lifespan of 7-10 years and was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) IN 1908.

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The German Shepherd is a double-coated breed with colors including black, black & tan, sable, red & black, grey, and black & silver.

The temperament of the German Shepherd is stubborn, intelligent, confident, protective, curious, alert, loyal, obedient, watchful, courageous, and brave.

The German Shepherd is an excellent working dog and is often used as a police dog, service dog, guide dog, and Therapy Dog. The breed is also popular as a family pet.

An overview and history of the Coyote

Coyotes are a species of canine found throughout North and Central America. They are considered very versatile and adaptable animals and have been able to thrive in many habitats.

Coyotes typically weigh between 20 and 50 pounds and have an average height of 24 inches tall.

Their coat is usually a mix of brown, gray, and black. Despite their relatively small size, coyotes are powerful predators. They have been known to take down animals as large as deer.

Coyotes were once found only in the western United States, but they have since spread across the country and can now be found from coast to coast.

In some areas, they have even established themselves in urban environments. Coyotes are generally shy around humans but occasionally attack people or pets if they feel threatened.

As human populations have continued to grow, coyote-human interactions have become more common, leading to an increase in coyote hunting and trapping in many parts of the country.

The Appearance: What does a Coyote Shepherd look like?

These hybrids are hard to predict when it comes to their appearance. They can end up looking like either parent, or they could be a mixture of both. Puppies in the same litter can also look quite different from one another.

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In the case of the Coyote Shepherd, they could end up with the long snout and erect ears of the German Shepherd. Or, they may have a thinner frame, face, muzzle, and pointed ears of the Coyote.

One thing we are sure of all Coyote Shepherds has are bushy tails that rest downward.

Also, If this mix has more genes of the German Shepherd, your pet is likely to have a wider and more muscular look. If the coyote genes are more dominant, your dog will appear to be thinner and have a leaner look.

The Size

The coyote shepherd falls into the medium to large-sized category. They are well proportioned and have a strong build. The average weight for this breed is 30 to 80 pounds, and they stand 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.

Coat Type and Color

Your Coydog might have the thick, luxurious coat of a German Shepherd, or it might inherit the shorter, denser fur of a Coyote. 

The most common colors for Coydogs are Black & Red, brown, gray, and red. You might also see some Coydogs with black fur or a combination of colors like black and silver. 

The Coydog’s coat is usually a mix of the German Shepherd’s and Coyote’s fur, but it can favor one parent more than the other.

Suppose you’re not sure what type of coat your Coydog has; take a look at pictures of both parents to get an idea. You can also ask your veterinarian for help. They will be able to tell you more about what type of coat your Coydog has and how to care for it.

Life Expectancy

The lifespan of a German Shepherd Coyote Mix is typically between 6 and 17 years. Coyotes have been known to live in captivity for up to 20 years. 

So, if your Coydog has more genes of the Coyote parent, he may have a longer lifespan. If the German Shepherd is the dominant gene, he will likely live for about the same time as a German Shepherd or more.

However, some factors can affect the lifespan of your Coydog. If he is not well cared for, his lifespan will be shorter. Factors such as diet, exercise, and environment affect how long your Coydog lives.

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What is a German Shepherd Coyote Mix Temperament?

We should know that every animal is an individual with a unique personality. That being said, we can still make some generalizations about the temperament of German Shepherd Coyote mixes based on the dispositions of their parent breeds.

German Shepherds Temperaments

German Shepherds are working dogs that were originally bred to herd sheep. They are very intelligent and trainable but can also be stubborn and willful. 

They are always alert and on the lookout for anything that might threaten their family or pack. They are very loyal and will do anything to protect their loved ones.

Coyote Temperaments

Coyotes are wild dogs that are closely related to wolves; they are very gregarious animals and enjoy being part of a pack. They are also quite adventurous and curious, which can sometimes get them into trouble. 

They are also easy-going and patient but can be quite shy around strangers. They are very intelligent and fast runners.

So, German Shepherd Coyote mixes will likely inherit some of these personality traits from their parent breeds. They may be Stubborn, Intelligent, Alert, Loyal, shy, Courageous, Brave, Obedient, Confident, Easy going, Protective, and Curious.

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Dietary Needs

Both animals have different dietary needs. The German Shepherd Coyote Mixes will do well on a raw diet to provide them with the needed nutrients. 

Their diet should be mainly based on meat, preferably raw, and fish. You can also support their meal with high-quality dog food and different produce such as blackberries, blueberries, peanuts, watermelons, peaches, pears, apples, and carrots.

To make sure they are getting all the nutrients they need, it is important to consult a veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best diet for your Coydog based on its parent’s individual needs.

Grooming Requirements: How can I care for my German Shepherd Coyote mix?

Coyote Shepherds are easy to maintain and only require brushing every few days. 

It will be difficult to know if your Coydog will be light or heavy shedder until they are full grown, so be prepared for some shedding. However, it will be best if you invest in a vacuum machine that can help you with the hair.

As for baths, only bathe when they are extremely dirty or smelly since bathing too often will strip away the natural oils in their coat which keeps it healthy. When you do bathe them, use a mild shampoo and make sure to rinse thoroughly.

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Coyote Shepherds are also known to be good jumpers, so you must have a fence that is at least six feet tall. This will help to keep them safe and prevent them from running off when grooming or bathing them.

As part of the grooming routine, ensure you brush your Coydog’s teeth at least twice a week. This will help to prevent tartar buildup and keep their gums healthy. 

You should also trim their nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth. Lastly, check their ears regularly for any wax buildup or debris and clean them as needed.

These simple tips can help keep your Coyote German Shepherd mix healthy and looking their best.

Exercise Requirement

The Shepherd Coyote is a high-energy and active creature that requires plenty of exercise of at least one hour daily. 

A daily pack walk, hike, run, or off-lead exercise in a safe area will fulfill his needs for physical activity. Still, he will also appreciate the time to play and explore.

This mix is intelligent and quick-witted, so he will also require mental stimulation. Interactive toys and games, such as puzzle toys and nose work, are a great way to keep his mind active.

The German Shepherd Coyote mix is an adaptable breed who can thrive in various environments, but he does best in a home with a large yard where he can run and play. He will be a happy and well-adjusted breed with proper exercise and stimulation.

Trainability

No two mixes are alike, so training needs will vary from Coydog to Coydog. However, there are some general things to keep in mind when training this animal.

First, German Shepherd Coyote mixes are intelligent and learn quickly. They also have a strong work ethic and are eager to please their owners. As a result, positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training are often very effective with this breed.

Secondly, German Shepherd Coyote mixes are loyal and protective of their families. They may be suspicious of strangers, so it is important to socialize with them from an early age. Take them to parks, dog beaches, and doggie daycare to help them become comfortable with other people and animals.

Also, German Shepherd Coyote mixes have a lot of energy and need plenty of daily exercises. A good amount of training and exercise is a great way to tire them out and prevent them from becoming bored or destructive.

Finally, because of the Coyote parent, your pet coyote is likely to have a high prey drive. Keep this in mind when training and around small children or animals. 

Teach them the “leave it” command and to stop chasing small animals or other household pets.

With patience and consistent training, German Shepherd Coyote mixes can be wonderful companion animals.

Do German Shepherd Coyote Mixes have any health problems? 

Shepherd Coyote Mixes have the potential to inherit health problems from both of their parent breeds. However, this is not guaranteed, and it largely depends on whether the parents were screened for certain diseases before being bred.

If they were not screened, there is a greater chance that the puppies will inherit health problems. However, suppose the parents were adequately screened and found to be healthy. In that case, the puppies are much less likely to have health problems.

Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that German Shepherd Coyote Mixes are properly screened for diseases before purchasing.

Health Concerns

German Shepherd Coyote Mixes can be prone to several health concerns inherited from their parents. 

Coyotes are susceptible to rabies, canine distemper, Canine parvovirus, infectious canine hepatitis, equine encephalitis, toxoplasmosis, and oral papillomatosis.

German Shepherds are also prone to several health concerns, including Hip Dysplasia, Hemophilia, Elbow Dysplasia, Cataracts, Degenerative Disc Disease, and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), Epilepsy, and Diabetes.

As a result of these health concerns, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before adopting a German Shepherd Coyote Mix.

Ensure you take your pet to regular check-ups and that they are up to date on all their vaccinations. This will help to prevent any health problems from developing or becoming worse.

However, with proper care and nutrition, German Shepherd Coyote Mixes can be healthy and long-lived breeds.

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How much does a German Shepherd Coyote Mix puppy cost & Where to get it?

It is not every day that you come across Shepherd Coyote Mix puppies. These puppies are a rare breed and can cost between $400 to $1500. If you are lucky enough to find one, you may have to wait on a waiting list as there is high demand for them.

You can check with your local animal shelter or rescues as they may have German Shepherd Coyote Mix puppies up for adoption.

Another option is to contact a reputable breeder in your area. Be prepared to pay a premium price for a coydog puppy, but it will be worth it when you see that adorable face.

You must ask the breeder for health insurance clearance on the parents of the coyote mix puppy to ensure that the puppy will be healthy.

In all, ensure you also visit the facility where the puppies are being raised to get a sense of their conditions, temperament, and how the puppies are being treated.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Breeding Coyotes and German Shepherds Together?

While there are some advantages to breeding coyotes and German Shepherds together, there are also some disadvantages.

Advantages

Here are some of the advantages of breeding coyotes and German Shepherds together:

  • The resulting offspring will be healthier overall due to the hybrid vigor that comes from mixing two different species.
  • The coyote German Shepherd mix will have a unique appearance that will make them stand out from others.
  • The mix will likely have a high work drive and intelligence, as coyotes and German Shepherds are known for these traits.

Disadvantages

There are also some disadvantages to breeding coyotes and German Shepherds together:

  • The mix will likely have an unpredictable temperament, as coyotes can be aggressive.
  • The mix may be difficult to train, as coyotes are not known for being easy to train.
  • The mix may be difficult to socialize with, as coyotes do not naturally trust humans.

So, there are both some advantages and disadvantages to breeding coyotes and German Shepherds together. You will need to decide if the benefits outweigh the disadvantages for you.

Related Questions

Is a German Shepherd Coyote Mix Right for You?

First, this is not a breed for first-time pet canine owners. They require a firm and experienced hand to train and socialize them properly.

Also, they are not ideal for apartment living. They are very active and require a lot of space to run and play. This is not the breed for you if you live in a small home or apartment.

Is it legal to have a coydog?

In most parts of the United States, it is illegal to own a purebred coyote, and it is also illegal to own a coydog that is more than 50% coyote. As such, people who wish to own a coydog must either live in a state or country where the hybrid is legal or obtain a special permit.

Final Note

Based on what we now know about the shepherd coyote, it is safe to say that this is a particularly unique and interesting breed.

While there is still some uncertainty about how well these dogs will fare in the long run, they are undoubtedly an intriguing crossbreed that is sure to capture the attention of many animal lovers.

With their striking appearance and athletic build, these hybrids are sure to make a big impression wherever they go.

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