9 Essential Ways to Keep Your Pets Safe From Coyotes
Here at Sparky Steps, our animal-loving pet care team is out walking dogs all the time. Because we offer daily walks and in-home pet sitting, we visit all sorts of urban and suburban environments. And no matter which Chicago neighborhood we visit, we consistently hear stories about coyote sightings.
According to wildlife experts, coyotes are traditionally most active in rural areas during nighttime and early morning hours. But with ongoing development across the greater Chicagoland area, coyotes have completely adapted to city life. In fact, Cook County is home to a massive, thriving population of urban coyotes. You may spot them in unexpected places like alleys, golf courses, or city parks. In cooler weather, you could actually see them out roaming at almost any hour of the day.
We’ve all heard tragic stories about unattended dogs or cats being injured by coyotes. But it is important to remember that coyotes aren’t inherently malicious; they are simply trying to survive in a shared environment. Want to ensure you know exactly how to protect your furry friend? Here are 9 smart protective measures every pet parent needs to know.
1. Know What to Look For
The UMD Natural Resources Research Institute explains that the coyote (Canis latrans) is a member of the canine family. The standard variety tends to be yellowish-brown or grayish, standing roughly the same height as a medium-sized shepherd dog. Unlike domestic dogs, coyotes run with their bushy tails pointing down toward the ground. Most have narrow muzzles and pointed ears. Because they occasionally breed with feral dogs, you might also run across “coy-dog” hybrids that appear larger and huskier.
2. Understand Their Typical Conduct
Generally speaking, urban coyotes are naturally timid and aren’t overtly aggressive toward humans. When you see a coyote, they are normally out scavenging for food. Their diverse diet includes everything from berries and insects to frogs, rodents, and rabbits. However, a hungry coyote will take advantage of easy prey. If you leave a compact dog or cat outside unattended, a coyote could easily mistake that small mammal for its next meal.
3. Watch What You Leave Outdoors
With their scavenging nature in mind, never establish your property as a dependable food source. Refrain from leaving trash out overnight, and keep your compost bin locked securely. If you feed birds, try to use a feeder with a very wide tray and hang it high; spilled birdseed attracts rodents, which in turn attract coyotes. Never leave pet food or water bowls outside overnight.
4. Scoop the Poop
Remember, coyotes have an incredible sense of smell, and they track their prey via scent. Your pet’s waste can actually attract coyotes to your yard or walking route. Regularly picking up after your furry friend helps eliminate these scent markers. (Of course, it’s also the neighborly thing to do!)
5. Think Twice About Off-Leash Walking
Walking your dog on a sturdy leash can literally save their life. Out in the open, the relative height of a human makes coyotes think twice about approaching. But if your off-leash pet runs ahead of you into the brush, a coyote could easily view them as a threat or prey. Unless you are inside a fully enclosed, high-fenced dog park, keep your dog leashed at all times.
6. Not Just Any Fence Will Do
Did you know that coyotes are excellent jumpers and climbers? The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County points out that a standard chain-link fence won't keep a determined coyote out. Look for solid fencing that is at least six to eight feet high. You may also want to install "coyote rollers" at the top so they cannot get a grip to pull themselves over.
A warning about invisible fences: An electronic boundary does absolutely nothing to keep predators out of your yard; it simply traps your dog inside a secured area with a hungry wild animal. Never leave your dog outside unsupervised with an invisible fence.
7. Adjust Your Behavior on Walks
When walking your dog—especially at dawn or dusk when coyotes are most active—stick to well-lit areas. If you must walk near wooded areas or golf courses, carry a strong, heavy flashlight with you. Use the beam to sweep the area ahead. If you spot a coyote in the distance and it hasn’t noticed you, calmly turn around and walk in the opposite direction without turning your back completely.
8. Keep Vaccinations Up to Date
Just like any warm-blooded mammal, coyotes can contract and spread rabies, as well as leptospirosis and canine distemper. While the Urban Coyote Research Project indicates that rabid coyotes are exceptionally rare in the Chicago area, an unvaccinated dog is still at massive risk from other urban wildlife like raccoons or skunks. Ensure your pup’s vaccines are always current.
9. What to Do in the Event of an Encounter ("Hazing")
If a coyote begins to approach you while you’re out walking, you must assert dominance through a process called "hazing." The absolute most important rule is to remain calm and NEVER run. Running triggers their predator-prey drive and will prompt the coyote to chase you.
Instead, pull your dog close, leash them tightly, and stand your ground. Make yourself look as large as possible by waving your arms. Stomp your feet and shout “GO AWAY!” aggressively. If there’s a sizeable object nearby, throw it toward (not directly at) the coyote. Carrying an air horn, a whistle, or a shaker can full of pennies is an excellent way to frighten a bold coyote away.
Practice these measures to help keep your four-legged companion safe and secure. You can also help fellow pet owners by passing along this information. Just a few strategic precautions can help us all co-exist safely with Chicago's urban wildlife!
Need a professional to safely navigate the neighborhood with your pup while you're at work? The trained dog walkers at Sparky Steps always put your pet's safety first. Contact us today!
Original author: Marybeth Bittel
Edited by the Sparky Steps Team (Last Updated: May 25, 2026)
