For dog owners who love the outdoors, hiking with a furry friend is a favorite activity in the Bay Area’s scenic parks. But as recent events have shown, it’s essential to be cautious, especially in areas where coyotes are known to roam. Coyotes are native to the region, and their presence in urban-adjacent parks has increased, sometimes leading to tragic encounters with dogs. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pup safe.

Recent Incidents Highlight the Risks

In September, three dogs were killed by coyotes within a ten-day period at San Francisco’s Crissy Field, all while off-leash. This spike in incidents has raised awareness and concerns among dog owners across the Bay Area. The increased coyote presence at Crissy Field is linked to easier access through the Presidio Tunnel Tops park, which connects the Presidio and Crissy Field. This trail expansion may have made coyote sightings more common in popular recreation spots

This isn’t the first instance of such encounters. Reports from Baker Beach, also in San Francisco, indicate another dog fatality from a coyote attack earlier this year. With coyotes often blending into park surroundings, they can be hard to spot until it’s too late. These incidents have prompted officials to increase signage and educate the public on how to avoid potential encounters.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe

Here are some ways to reduce the risks when hiking with your dog:

• Keep Your Dog Leashed: In areas known for coyote activity, always keep your dog on a leash, even in off-leash parks. Coyotes are more likely to target small dogs or those that wander off, and a leash provides better control in unexpected encounters.

• Read Trail Signs Carefully: Many parks post signs indicating recent wildlife sightings. Check these at the entrance and along the trail to stay informed of any recent coyote activity. If there have been reports, consider choosing a different route or location.

• Stay Close and Vigilant: Coyotes tend to avoid humans, so staying close to your dog can deter them. Avoid letting your dog run far ahead on the trail, and keep an eye out for signs of wildlife activity, like scat or paw prints.

• Equip for Safety: Some owners find comfort in carrying deterrents like whistles or loud alarms. There are also protective vests available for dogs, which can reduce the risk of injury if they encounter a coyote.

• Avoid Dawn and Dusk Hikes: Coyotes are most active during early morning and late evening hours. Planning your hikes during daylight hours can lower the likelihood of running into one.

  
  

What to Do if You Encounter a Coyote

If you do spot a coyote, keep calm but make yourself appear as large as possible. Pick up small dogs and slowly back away without turning your back on the coyote. If necessary, make loud noises or use a whistle to scare it away. Your goal is to communicate that you and your dog are not easy targets.

Your Stories and Experiences

We’d love to hear from the Brindleden community—have you or your dog encountered coyotes or other wildlife on Bay Area trails? Share your tips, stories, or favorite safety practices in the comments to help keep our dog-loving community informed and prepared.