15 Dog Breeds With Coyote Looks And Loyal Hearts

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Ever find yourself admiring the sleek, wild look of a coyote but prefer a companion with a bit more warmth and wag? You’re not alone. Some dog breeds bear a striking resemblance to their wild cousins, yet they bring all the loyalty and affection you’d want from a family pet. Here are 15 breeds that bring the best of both worlds.

Czechoslovakian Vlcak

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This breed is as wild as its name sounds. The Czechoslovakian Vlcak was originally bred for border patrol in cold climates, so it’s no wonder they’ve got that coyote look. Despite their origins, these dogs are surprisingly gentle and good-natured.

Belgian Malinois

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Looking for a dog with both brains and brawn? The Belgian Malinois fits the bill. They’re the type of dog that’ll watch you lock the door and somehow figure out how to unlock it when you’re not looking. But don’t let that intimidate you. Malinois are incredibly loyal and can be a fun, energetic addition to an active household.

Tamaskan

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Now, if you’ve ever wanted a dog that looks like it just stepped out of the wilderness, the Tamaskan might be your pick. Bred specifically to resemble wolves, these dogs have that coyote-like appearance down pat. Here’s the twist: they’re total softies.

Finnish Spitz

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Finnish Spitz’s reddish-gold fur and sharp features give them a distinctly wild look. These pups are anything but untamed; they’re loved for their affectionate nature and playful bark. If you’ve got a sense of humor, you’ll appreciate their tendency to “talk” to you.

Utonagan

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One thing to remember is that their wolfish look comes with a thick coat, which means shedding—lots of it. So, if you’re okay with a bit of extra vacuuming and brushing, the Utonagan will more than make up for it with their loyalty, affection, and soulful eyes.

Siberian Husky

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Speaking of Huskies, the Siberian variety is often mistaken for their wilder relatives. Because of their striking blue eyes and thick fur, they have that mysterious, untamed look. Don’t let that fool you. Huskies tend to be friendly and outgoing.

Norwegian Elkhound

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The Norwegian Elkhound is like a blast from the past, with a history that dates back to Viking times. In addition to being extremely loyal, they are excellent watchdogs. But don’t worry—they’re also affectionate toward their families, often choosing to stay close by your side.

American Eskimo Dog

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Despite the name, the American Eskimo Dog doesn’t hail from the Arctic, although their fluffy white coat might make you think so. Sporting pointy ears and a fox-like face, they’ve got that wild look, but underneath all that fluff is a heart of gold.

Shikoku

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Training a Shikoku can sometimes be a challenge, though. They’re independent thinkers, a trait that comes from their hunting background. So, patience and consistency are key. Once they get the hang of things, they’re reliable and obedient, but expect them to test the boundaries every now and then—just to keep you on your toes.

Shiba Inu

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Have they ever met a Shiba Inu? These dogs are like the sly foxes of the dog world: compact, sharp, and incredibly independent. While they might have that wild, coyote-like face, Shibas are the type that will keep you on your toes with their playful antics. Just be ready to win over their stubborn streak.

Akita

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Originally from Japan, Akitas were bred to guard royalty and nobility, and they carry that noble air with them to this day. They’re known for being incredibly protective and excellent watchdogs. Underneath that powerful exterior lies a dog that’s as loyal as they come, often forming an unbreakable bond with their family.

Alaskan Klee Kai

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Imagine a mini-Husky with a touch of coyote charm, and you’ve got the Alaskan Klee Kai. Packing all the looks of a wild canid into a much smaller, more manageable size, they’re agile, alert, and always up for an adventure, meaning they’re perfect for someone who loves the great outdoors.

Basenji

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If you’re looking for a dog that’s a little different, the Basenji might be your match. Noted for their unique yodel instead of a bark, they have a sleek, coyote-like appearance and cat-like grooming habits, making them one of the most distinctive breeds around. Basenjis are independent thinkers, so they might not always follow commands.

Carolina Dog

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A common name for this breed is the American Dingo. Carolina Dogs have a wild look strikingly similar to a coyote. Intelligent and with a strong pack mentality, they’re happiest when part of a family, showing loyalty, affection, and a keen sense of adventure.

Jindo

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Hailing from Korea, the Jindo is a breed known for its loyalty and hunting prowess. Sporting sharp features and an agile build, they strongly resemble coyotes. Jindos are fiercely loyal to their owners, often forming a bond with one person in particular.

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