Ever locked eyes with a dog and thought, “Is that a coyote?” You’re not alone. Some pups have a wild, untamed beauty that makes people do a double take at the dog park. But here’s the secret: these coyote lookalikes are loving, loyal companions that belong right at home with you. If you’re drawn to that wild vibe but want a pet that fits in the family, let’s walk through six breeds that capture the spirit of the wild—while still being total sweethearts on your couch.
Tamaskan: The Wolfish Wonder with a Gentle Heart
At first glance, the Tamaskan looks like it just stepped out of the forest, all sharp lines and thick double coat. But beneath that rugged appearance is a heart of gold. Tamaskans are playful, intelligent, and bond deeply with their families, making them the best kind of adventure buddy.
Despite their wild appearance, Tamaskans are eager to please and quick to learn. They thrive on activity—think hiking, running, or brainy puzzle toys. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key to keeping them happy and well-behaved. They’re sensitive to your moods, always ready to nuzzle you after a hard day.
Shikoku: The Spirited Japanese Trailblazer
The Shikoku is one of Japan’s hidden gems—a medium-sized, coyote-like dog with a foxy face and a tail that curls like a question mark. These dogs were bred for hunting in the mountains, so they’re agile, alert, and love a challenge. Their loyalty runs deep, and they often form a special bond with one person.
Socialization from puppyhood is important to help them be comfortable with new faces and situations. Shikokus can be a bit reserved, but with gentle consistency and positive reinforcement, they blossom into affectionate, reliable companions. If you love spending time outdoors, a Shikoku will be right there with you, tail wagging.
Czechoslovakian Vlcak: The Wolfdog with a Soft Spot
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak (or Czech Wolfdog) is the closest thing you’ll find to a wolf in the dog world—without the unpredictability. They’re striking, athletic, and have a powerful presence, but they’re also surprisingly gentle with their families. These dogs crave a strong bond and want to be included in everything.
Vlcaks are smart and energetic, so they need a mix of physical exercise and mental games to stay content. Early training and lots of exposure to different people and places will help them grow into well-rounded pets. They’re sensitive to your emotions and quick to pick up on your cues, making them amazing partners for the right owner.
Saarloos Wolfdog: The Reserved Free Spirit
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a head-turner—lean, long-legged, and with those soulful, amber eyes. While their looks are wild, their personalities are surprisingly gentle and reserved. They’re not big on chaos or loud noises, preferring a calm, predictable home where they can trust their people.
They need time to warm up to strangers but are incredibly loyal once you’re part of their circle. Saarloos thrive with experienced owners who understand canine body language and can provide patience, structure, and routine. Daily walks and quiet bonding time keep them feeling safe and secure.
Native American Indian Dog: The Calm, Watchful Guardian
With their elegant build, bushy tails, and alert expressions, Native American Indian Dogs resemble coyotes at first glance, but they have a temperament that’s all about family and connection. Calm, intuitive, and protective, they make wonderful companions for kids and adults alike.
These dogs are quick learners and respond best to gentle, positive training methods. They’re sensitive to household vibes—if you’re stressed, they’ll come to comfort you. Native American Indian Dogs need regular exercise and a sense of purpose, like hiking or agility games, to keep their minds sharp and spirits bright.
Siberian Husky: The Mischievous Marvel
No list of coyote lookalikes is complete without the Siberian Husky. Their striking eyes, expressive faces, and agile bodies are pure wild energy, but their personalities are pure joy. Huskies are famously friendly, playful, and sometimes a bit mischievous—they’ll keep you laughing and on your toes.
Huskies thrive on companionship and hate being left alone for long stretches. They’re escape artists, so secure fencing is a must. Regular exercise, like running or sledding, helps them burn off energy and stay healthy. Watch for signs of boredom—chewing or digging can mean they need more activity or attention.
Each of these coyote-like dogs brings a dash of wild beauty and a whole lot of heart into your life. With patience, understanding, and a little adventure, they’ll become not just pets, but unforgettable family members.
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
