Will Coyotes Jump A Fence To Get A Dog?

Coyotes are clever predators that have adapted to live in close proximity to humans. If you have a dog, you may worry about coyotes jumping your fence to threaten your beloved pet. Read on to find out if coyotes can and will jump fences to get dogs.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, the short answer is: yes, coyotes are capable of jumping a 6 foot tall fence and have been known to do so to grab small pets. But whether they attempt this depends on a few key factors.

How High Can Coyotes Jump?

Coyotes are extremely agile creatures that can easily clear fences and obstacles. Their incredible jumping abilities allow them to bound over backyard barriers with ease to access pets. Understanding how high they can leap is crucial to protecting your furry friends.

Coyotes are adept jumpers

Coyotes are remarkable jumpers capable of clearing fences over 6 feet tall. Their powerful hind legs and lean bodies give them an athletic edge. According to wildlife experts, coyotes have been observed making vertical leaps of at least 4 feet and horizontal jumps spanning 13 feet.

In addition, coyotes can jump and grab hold of the top of fences with their front paws to pull themselves up and over barriers. Their dexterity and problem-solving intelligence enables them to scale fences even when lacking enough space to make running vertical jumps.

Most backyard fences are not tall enough to stop a determined coyote

The typical height of residential backyard fences ranges from 4 to 6 feet. Given coyotes’ jumping capabilities, most suburban enclosures are inadequate to prevent coyote access. These mid-sized carnivores can easily clear, climb over, or squeeze under loosely built fences.

To effectively exclude coyotes, fencing needs to be at least 6 feet tall with the upper portion angled inward. Burying bottom fence edges deep into the ground or lining them with rolling barriers can also help block access.

And removing objects near fences that offer jump platforms will hinder their climbing efforts.

Coyotes are amazingly nimble jumpers able to bypass standard backyard fences. Protecting pets requires specially designed enclosures with preventative deterrents. Understanding the leaping abilities of these wild canines is key to safeguarding domestic animals.

Will Hungry Coyotes Attempt to Jump a Fence for a Meal?

Coyotes are opportunistic animals and predators by nature. When food is scarce, especially during the harsh winter months, they can become desperate and bold in search of their next meal. Small pets like dogs and cats that are left unattended, even in fenced-in backyards, are vulnerable to coyotes’ predatory instincts.

Coyotes jump fences more often in winter when food is scarce

According to wildlife experts, coyotes are more likely to attempt jumping backyard fences during the winter months when their usual food sources like rabbits, rodents and even fruit are hard to find (1).

With snow cover and freezing temperatures making hunting difficult, coyotes expand their search into neighborhoods in pursuit of cats, small dogs and other domestic pets.

One study analyzing coyote attacks on pets found that around 60% occurred during the winter season (2). Another report revealed that over a 7-year period, 41% of verified coyote jumps over suburban yard fences took place in January and February (3).

So pet owners need to be extra cautious about leaving their furry friends outside unattended as winter drives coyotes to take more risks to avoid starvation.

Small dogs and cats are seen as easy prey by coyotes

Coyotes typically hunt small mammals like mice, voles and rabbits. But suburban sprawl has enticed coyotes with easier pickings – pets less than 25 pounds in weight are vulnerable to coyote attacks (4).

Unattended small dogs and cats are viewed as easy prey – a convenient meal requiring little effort to catch and kill.

The table shows confirmed coyote attacks from 2009-2018, indicating small pets bear the brunt (5). Even large dogs on leashes are sometimes attacked if coyotes’ hunger reaches desperation levels (6). So pet owners need to keep coyotes’ predatory nature in mind and not let their guard down.

To keep pets safe, experts recommend ensuring backyard fences are high enough (over 6 feet) with no gaps for coyotes access (7). Accompanying dogs when outdoors even in fenced yards is also crucial. Securing the safety of beloved furry companions requires continued vigilance against stealthy coyotes prowling suburbs.

With winter now reaching its peak, don’t underestimate hungry coyotes’ capacity to capture pets as their next convenient meal. Bolstering backyard defenses and monitoring pets outdoors is essential. Outsmarting these opportunistic predators reduces risks to defenseless small animals we adore.

What Fence Designs Best Deter Coyotes?

Tall solid fences above 6 feet tall discourage coyotes

Coyotes are incredibly intelligent and resourceful animals, so keeping them out of your yard can be a challenge. However, a properly constructed fence over 6 feet tall can be an effective deterrent. Solid fences made of wood, metal or vinyl that prevent coyotes from being able to see through or climb can discourage them from attempting to enter the yard.

Tightly spaced pickets or privacy slats are ideal. Chain link fences may slow coyotes down, but likely won’t stop a determined one from climbing or digging underneath. Going with a taller fence removes the upper hand coyotes have when surveying surroundings, impeding their ability to jump and climb over.

The key is ensuring there are no gaps at the bottom for the coyote to squeeze under, or boards on a wood fence that could create footholds. Burying fence skirting at least 12-18 inches underground seals the bottom edge. Smooth metal or capped PVC vinyl fencing further eliminates paw holds.

Installing a floppy topper or roller add-on to the top can thwart climbing attempts. Choosing durable, rot-resistant materials ensures the fence retains integrity over time without sagging or warping to create gaps. Periodic inspection and upkeep seals any newfound holes or weaknesses quickly.

While not impossible for a coyote to conquer, a solidly constructed 6-foot high fence greatly reduces the odds of one gaining easy access.

Removing vegetation and debris near fences limits climbing access

In addition to optimal fence height and materials, strategic landscaping and maintenance around the perimeter can limit climbing and entry points for persistent coyotes. Keeping the area directly around the fence line clean and clear of shrubs, brush, woodpiles and other debris eliminates footholds coyotes could use to boost themselves up and over.

Pruning overhanging tree limbs back at least 5 feet from the fence removes aerial access. Mowing or spraying herbicide to prevent plant growth along the base also discourages digging underneath by removing cover and soil loosened by roots.

Strategically placing thorny bushes like roses, blackberry or raspberry plants on the outside of fencing uses natural deterrents to puncture and poke coyotes attempting to cross through or over. Placing flat gravel, large rocks or paved walkways around the exterior base also denies paw traction and digging opportunities.

Eliminating water sources, pet food, fallen fruit or other potential food attractants beyond the fence line means there are no rewards compelling coyotes to breach, even if an opportunity arises. Taking away their ability to climb while removing tempting reasons to enter the yard is key to deterring coyotes.

With creative fence construction and strategic vegetation management, it is possible to safeguard dogs and other pets from coyotes roaming the neighborhood. A tall, solid fence over 6 feet high with a deterrent topper and cleared perimeter sends the message that your yard is not an easy meal ticket for coyotes to accept.

While not a guarantee, fencing optimized to deny climbing, digging and entry access provides the best odds of keeping coyotes safely on their own side.

How Can I Protect My Dog from Coyotes in My Yard?

Coyotes are clever predators that can easily jump fences under 6 feet tall to enter yards and threaten pets. However, there are several effective deterrents and barriers you can employ to safeguard your beloved furry friends.

Never leave small pets unattended outside

It’s never a good idea to let tiny or toy dog breeds roam your yard unsupervised. According to the Humane Society, even watchful, protective breeds like Chihuahuas can fall prey to hungry coyotes. The crafty canines are known to lure dogs away from homes by tempting them to play and then attacking.

Leaving food or water outside can also attract coyotes to your property.

Install coyote rollers and fence toppings

Stop coyotes from scaling your existing fence by installing a “coyote roller” barrier along the top. The spinning metal cylinders deter coyotes from getting a grip. For shorter fences under 6 feet, attach an angled fence topping to make it harder to jump.

A slanted mesh top called the CoyoteZapper delivers a safe static shock to repel invading coyotes.

Use deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers

Strategically place motion sensor sprinklers that surprised coyotes with sprays of water along likely access points. The ScareCrow brand covers up to 1,200 square feet per device. Interplanting pungent herbs like garlic, onion, chives or sage may also discourage coyotes from digging under fences.

Lighting is another option—studies show high intensity strobe lights and sirens triggered by movement make coyotes hightail it within minutes.

Installing a double barrier wooden privacy fence with an electric wire running along the top and bottom prevents coyotes from crawling under or climbing over. Just make sure your pets can’t accidentally get zapped!awn permanently.

Always supervise your dog when letting them out in the yard, even for quick bathroom breaks. Keep cats indoors or only let them outside in a secure, covered enclosure or cat patio. Following these tips diligently keeps your precious pets safe from cunning coyotes!

Conclusion

Coyotes are resourceful predators capable of jumping most suburban backyard fences if properly motivated by hunger or opportunity. To protect your pets, install tall solid fencing over 6 feet, clear away debris, and use deterrents to make your yard less appealing.

Supervise small dogs when they are outside and do not assume a standard backyard fence will keep coyotes out. With proper precautions, you can minimize the risks coyotes pose.