Additionally, humans are excellent sources of food and garbage that can attract coyotes. These encounters can be particularly deadly for small dogs, making them easy prey. As humans spread into coyote habitats, the chances of encounters between coyotes and dogs continue to increase, putting their pets at greater risk.
Coyotes also become more defensive of their territory and actively hunt more to provide for their young. The mating season for coyotes begins in late January and lasts from August to April, when they have their puppies.
Coyotes, which can cause more incidents involving dogs, can also venture into human domains and become more desperate for food. Attacks may be more likely during winter when resources are scarce.
If you come across a coyote, here are eight methods that you can employ to diminish the possibility of coyote assaults on your canine and safeguard your puppy. It’s crucial to remain watchful throughout the entire year and shield your dog from a coyote assault.
Enclose your yard with a fence
If you have a yard with a durable fence, you can reduce the risk of encountering a coyote, but it does not provide complete protection from coyote attacks as these animals can climb or dig. A fence cannot completely block the view of your dog from outside.
Allowing coyotes to enter your property while your dog has no way of escaping is not a good choice for many reasons, and one of these reasons is that an invisible fence is not a suitable option. Chain link fences will allow coyotes to see your dog and may provoke them to attack further.
A sturdy, tall fence can offer an essential barrier and deter numerous — although not all — assaults.
Continuously monitor your dog’s activities while they are outdoors
If necessary, a desperate coyote will scale or burrow, as previously stated. Particularly during nighttime when coyotes are more prone to being active, it is crucial for you to oversee your dog’s behavior while they are outside in your yard, even if you have a barrier.
When your dog is outside, they will be more afraid of coyotes than you are. Be ready to help them by keeping an eye on your dog. Keeping an eye on them will help to spot any signs of danger first.
Obtain an exterior light
Bright lights can help steer clear of coyotes. If you have a dog, you can turn on a light or get a motion detector light for your yard, so you can see your dog while they are outside. It can also be helpful to have a handy flashlight that you can use to scare off any coyotes. This is especially necessary for nighttime walks. Don’t leave home without one. Even a small keychain light is better than nothing.
Do not neglect food or garbage
Your risk of encountering a coyote may increase due to this, but you can still leave out a bird feeder and enjoy having birds on your property, just be aware that coyotes hunt birds. Coyotes will scavenge for food when they’re hungry, and human garbage cans are excellent sources of food for them. To avoid attracting wildlife, all garbage bins should be sealed. It’s not a good idea to leave out empty food bowls or food that smells like food, but your dog may prefer to eat outside.
Steer clear of areas where coyotes can conceal themselves
If you have these on your property, make sure to wait in line to provide coyotes with a place to hide in bushes and underbrush. Stick to cleared paths, trails, and wanderings when you’re walking your dog. Even if you accidentally enter their territory, don’t encounter a hungry coyote as a perceived threat.
It is important to remain leashed at all times during walks.
You need to use a sturdy leash that is short enough to keep your dog reasonably close. Don’t rely on a retractable leash as it can easily break and won’t allow you to maintain control or quickly reel in your dog. Always have your dog on a leash for their safety during walks. You need a way to restrain them and pull them back if needed, as you can’t know how your dog will react to a confrontation or encounter with a coyote. And in case of an emergency, you need to be able to keep them under control. It doesn’t matter how well-behaved your dog is.
Stay composed, be prominent, be vocal
If you encounter a coyote, it is usually not a serious threat. Stay calm and make yourself appear as big as possible by yelling. Try to intimidate them with everything you can if you have to deal with a coyote.
Scare the coyote away using your flashlight if you can, and pick up your dog if you’re able to. Back away slowly.
You should not run but try to scare away the coyote instead, especially if their young ones are nearby, as you would want them to leave their territory as soon as possible.
Share observations in your locality
Additionally, inspire others within your local area to take action. Take responsibility and move coyotes that could pose a threat to humans and pets, assisting in their capture and providing animal control with valuable information. Remain vigilant and careful, as this can aid in reporting sightings of coyotes and benefit both you and your fellow residents.
Stay safe out there. Read up on how other wild animals can pose a threat to your dog, so now you know about the danger of coyotes to your dog.