Should I be worried about coyotes and new puppy?

[Anonymous]

We live in an suburban area outside the beltway. The houses in the neighborhood all have large list 2- 3 acres and there is a park (nature not play) behind the neighborhood. We see foxes frequently. I saw a small coyote in our yard once several years ago. A neighbor of few doors down had coyote pups under her shed/porch a few years ago. I've heard that there are are coyotes in the area.

Our backyard is fenced and while the puppy would never be alone, I would like to let him run around the backyard with the kids. Should I be worried about this? I can't imagine keeping him on a leash in the backyard.

[Anonymous]

I would think that as long as your yard is sealed tight (and you need to regularly walk the whole fence line to check), you pup should be fine.

[Anonymous]

The fence isn't a coyote fence. Coyotes can easily climb it. The young one that I saw a few years ago jump/climbed over it without much effort.

[Anonymous]

What kind of dog is it? I have two large dogs. I don't worry about coyotes b/c usually a lone coyote will avoid what appears to be a pack of larger animals.

How old are your kids? Again, if the dog is out there with the kids, that's a lot of commotion for a coyote. They're not as shy as wolves, but they aren't stupid.

The biggest issue is leaving a small dog or puppy alone in the yard. That is when a coyote will take advantage.