While a coyote’s diet typically consists of rabbits, hares, small rodents, birds, amphibians, grasshoppers and fruit; if the opportunity arises coyotes will go after small dogs. Even larger dogs can be harmed by coyotes if a confrontation occurs.
To help protect your dog from coyotes, consider these tips:
• Keep your dog inside at night when coyotes are most active.
• Do not leave pet food (or any other food) and water outside as this can attract coyotes to your yard.
• Keep your dog on a leash when going for walks.
• Don’t depend on a fence to keep a coyote out of your property. Even with a fence, owners should monitor their pets when they’re outside. Coyotes can jump over fences, dig under them, and squeeze through the boards. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources suggests fences should be two-metres high and extend underground at least 20 centimetres.
• While coyotes are most active at night, they can also be spotted during the day. Always go outside with your dog when you let it out.
• Coyotes can be attracted to dog feces so make sure to clean up after your pet.