Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

How Big Are Coyotes Compared to Dogs? Vet-Reviewed Size Chart & Comparison

Coyote looking straight at the camera

To a casual observer, coyotes look like certain dog breeds, and while this does make sense because they are both canines, coyotes (Canis latrans) are wild canids found in North America. They are closely related to the gray wolf, but are notably smaller than them.

But what about their physical differences? Are coyotes bigger than dogs? The truth is that it depends on the dog breed and the coyote subspecies being compared. There is considerable size variance between dog breeds and even between coyote subspecies. Let’s look at a few comparison charts.

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-03

Coyote vs Dog: Which Is Bigger?

Small dog breeds like Miniature Poodles are obviously smaller than coyotes, but what about dogs like Rottweilers or Labrador Retrievers?

A comparison between a dog breed and a coyote would require knowing the size (or other metrics of interest) of both the dog and the coyote subspecies. Remarkably, there is a very high variance in the average weight of a coyote depending on the subspecies being studied.

The largest coyotes are thought to be those found primarily in East/Northeast North America– Canis latrans thamnos and Canis latrans frustor. These subspecies can reach weights of up to 40 lbs (18 kg). This makes them considerably larger than the smaller subspecies which reach an average weight of around 25 lbs (11.5 kg).

Here is a comparison chart of the larger coyote subspecies and a variety of dog breeds so you can get an idea of how they stack up to one another:

Animal Average Weight Average Height
Coyote (all subspecies) 25–40 pounds 18–23 inches
Dachshund (standard) 16–32 pounds 8–9 inches
Greyhound 60–70 pounds 27–30 inches
Newfoundland 100- 150 pounds 25–28 inches
Standard Poodle 40–70 pounds 18–24 inches
Rottweiler 80–135 pounds 22–27 inches
English Setter 45–80 pounds 26–27 inches
American Water Spaniel 25–45 pounds 15–18 inches
Whippet 25–40 pounds 18 -22 inches
Finnish Spitz 20–33 pounds 15–20 inches

Coyotes vs Other Animals: How Do They Compare?

This comparison chart has animals that are similar to coyotes, like wolves and foxes, as well as ones that are not, such as lions and tigers:

Animal Average Weight Average Height
Coyote (all subspecies) 25–40 pounds 18–23 inches
Wolf 50–180 pounds 26–32 inches
Fox 5–30 pounds 9–12 inches
Lion 250–420 pounds 36–48 inches
Tiger 140–700 pounds 30–42 inches
Human 100–180 pounds 62–67 inches
coyote close up
Image Credit: mathey, Pixabay

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-03

How Coyotes Differ From Dogs

There are various similarities between coyotes and dogs because they are both canines. They have the same basic diet and instincts and can even mate with one another. However, there are a few ways that they differ:

  • Physical — Coyotes typically have snouts that are pointier than the snouts of dogs. Coyotes also have elongated and less round paws when compared to dogs – this helps one distinguish between dog tracks and coyote tracks.
  • Teeth – Unlike dogs, the upper canines (long teeth often referred to as “fangs”) of coyotes extend past a structure in the jaw known as the mental foramina.
  • Domestication – Unlike dogs, coyotes aren’t domesticated and as such, are less likely to approach a human (even if they roam around human settlements).
coyote in the wild
Image Credit: rauschenberger, Pixabay

Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-03

Conclusion

Coyotes are fascinating animals and hold their own when it comes to veracity, weight, and height. They are bigger than some dog breeds but smaller than others. One thing is for sure, though: They would be able to hold their own if they were to get into a tangle with a dog. Fortunately, coyotes like to keep to themselves in the wild.

See Also:


Featured Image Credit: MoniCh647, Pixabay

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Fast Can a Beagle Run? Breed Requirements & Facts

Beagles were bred to hunt, so it makes sense that they would be speedy. After all, they must catch up to their prey...

Labany Dog Breed Guide: Info, Pictures, Care & More

The Labany is a mix between a Labrador Retriever and Brittany Spaniel. This mixed breed can fall into either the medium or large...

11 Best Podcasts About Dogs (2025 Guide)

Owning dogs can be an absolute joy, but it can also be challenging. Thankfully, with access to the Internet, owners can also enjoy...

45 Dog Christmas Puns to Celebrate the Howl-idays!

The most won-dog-ful time of the year is the Christmas Collie-days! If we’ve started off being too punny for you, buckle up—we aren’t...

More related

11 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Detroit, MI (2025 Update)

Living in a big city like Detroit, Michigan, has its ups and downs, and one of the downsides is how difficult it can...

Male vs Female Boston Terriers: The Differences (With Info & Pictures)

You might be familiar with this dog’s nickname, the American Gentleman, which is a perfect way to describe the temperament of this breed....

What Happens When Dogs Consume Meth? (Vet Answer)

Drug ingestion by dogs is nothing new. Whether they are legal, prescribed medications that members of the household are on or illegal street...

F2B Goldendoodle: Info, Pictures, History & More

Goldendoodles are a hybrid breed of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Both breeds have outstanding characteristics and traits, which makes them desirable...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Nectarines? Vet-Verified Facts & Safe Alternatives

As pet parents, we are responsible for knowing what types of foods are safe for our beloved animals to eat. When it comes to dogs, we have to be very cautious not to offer certain foods or leave them out...

Can Dogs Eat Nectarines

7 Best Foods for Great Dane Puppies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

When it comes to taking care of our dogs, we only want to give them the best. This is especially true for those who own a Great Dane puppy as these large breed dogs are fast growers and require specific...

great dane puppy

Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms? Vet-Reviewed Safety & Health Facts

We know that our dogs love all things food, but what about a nice, meaty portobello mushroom? Can dogs eat mushrooms, and are they healthy for them? Yes, dogs can safely eat most mushrooms that we purchase from our local...

Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms

8 Best Dog Foods for Diabetic Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

If your beloved dog has been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be in shock and overwhelmed by the situation. The good news is that with the right diet, lifestyle, and care, your dog can still enjoy many years of good...

Ginger dog eating

Senior Dog Food vs Regular: The Differences, Pros & Cons

As dog owners know, the food that we feed our pups is essential to keeping them healthy. When our dogs start getting older, their bodies change, and so do their nutritional needs. After your dog reached a certain age (which...

Dogster_Senior vs Regular Dog Food

11 Best Dog Foods for IBD in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

As pet parents, we hate it when our pets are in pain or sick. If your dog is suffering from an upset stomach and digestive issues, it could be suffering from IBD or inflammatory bowel disease. If your pup has...

a dachshund dog looks sick lying on its owner

What Is Dog Food Made Of? Vet-Reviewed Ingredient Guide

Buying dog food is so commonplace. We do it all the time without a second thought. If your dog is running low on food, you hop online or go to the store and grab the same bag you’ve been buying....

german shepherd dog lying near food bowl

Can Dogs Eat Quesadillas? Vet-Verified Risks & FAQ

It’s no secret that dogs want to eat everything they see us enjoying. Of course, as responsible dog owners, we know that isn’t possible. Certain foods are toxic to dogs while others simply aren’t good for them. One of the...

Can Dogs Eat Quesadillas