Canid / Canine Hybrids and Crosses

Canid hybrids and crosses are the results of different members of the Canid family (Canines) breading. Some of these hybrids and crosses are done on purpose, like the wolfdog which is a popular hybrid pet, and others are done on accident and have a huge effect on the population of various species, such as the breeding of coyotes and the American red wolf. Either way there is a great variety of crosses and hybrids among the Canid family, providing a great deal of interesting information.

Wolfdogs-Wolfdogs are by far the most popular Canid cross. They are actually not a hybrid, since in 1993 dogs were classified as subspecies of wolves, therefore they are merely a cross like any other breed cross, producing a mutt. However, these crosses are often wilder then the average mutt and have strong personalities requiring great care as pets. The majority of wolfdogs are produced in captivity with pet ownership in mind. However, there are a few cases where dogs and wolves are breeding in the wild causing some issues with the wolf populations, as fewer and fewer wolves are pure bread.

Coydogs and Dogotes-Coydogs are the offspring of a male coyote and a female dog. On the other hand dogotes are the offspring of a male dog and a female coyote. Some of these animals are bred on purpose with pets in mind. Most report that their friendly Coydog pups turn into coydogs that are nervous, shy, fearful, and not at all playful or outgoing. Some are even reported to quickly bite when frighted, or they feel they are threatened. Still others report that there coydogs are less neurotic, and even gentle, loving, and playful. This is a matter of the coydog and depends on handling throughout their lives as well as personality. Because this is a breed that is so high strung it is not for the average dog owner and taking a coydog should only be done after great consideration. Coydogs and dogotes have been reported in the wild as well. This is rarer then one might think. The breeding cycle of coyotes and dogs differs greatly reducing the number of coydogs and dogotes that are produced, especially in the wild. It has been known to happen however.