Yes, coyotes can and do sometimes eat dogs, especially small or unattended ones, but it is not their primary food source and overall risk is relatively low in most areas.

What coyotes usually eat

Coyotes mainly eat small wild animals such as rodents, rabbits, and other small mammals, along with some fruits and vegetation, and will also scavenge carrion or human-related food like garbage when available. Domestic dogs are generally not a regular part of their diet and are more often seen as competitors or threats than routine prey, though they may be targeted opportunistically.

When dogs are at risk

Dogs are most at risk when they are small or toy-sized, left outside unsupervised, or off-leash near natural areas, especially at dawn, dusk, and at night. Risk tends to increase during coyote breeding and denning seasons and during winter or other times of food scarcity, when coyotes may be more territorial or more motivated to take risks for food.

How coyotes interact with dogs

Small dogs may be viewed as prey, while medium and large dogs are more often seen as territorial threats that coyotes may try to chase away or, in some cases, attack, especially if a den or pups are nearby. Even though attacks do occur and coyotes may eat a dog they kill, compared to how many dogs and coyotes live near one another, such incidents remain uncommon overall.

Basic safety tips for dogs

To reduce risk, keep dogs on a leash, supervise them outdoors (especially at night), and avoid leaving pet food, unsecured garbage, or fallen fruit outside, which can attract coyotes. In known coyote areas, use fenced yards that are high and secure, accompany small dogs outside, and consider avoiding walking at dawn or dusk where coyotes are frequently seen.