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Pawsitive Dog Training: Sit, Stay & Succeed
- Pawsitive Dog Training
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
February 2026
Love is in the air this February!I already know who my Valentines will be—and speaking of love being in the air… we’re smack dab in the middle of coyote mating season! How exciting.
Coyote mating season typically runs from January through March, with peak activity in February. These wild cousins of our dogs are one of the few mammals that are monogamous, often mating for life, and they live in small family groups called packs.
Puppies are usually born in March, April, or May, with litters averaging five to six pups. Coyotes give birth only once a year. The puppies typically stay with their parents for six to nine months before heading out on their own, and most coyotes don’t mate until they are about two years old. If pups from the previous year are still with mom and dad, they often help raise the new litter—talk about a family affair!
During this season, you may notice coyotes more often as their activity increases. You’ll hear them singing the song of their people to attract mates and mark territory.
As exciting as welcoming new life into the world can be, here are some tips to help keep our canine companions safe from their wild counterparts. Most coyote activity occurs around dawn and dusk, though it’s not uncommon to hear or see them in the middle of the night. If you see a coyote during the day and believe something may be wrong, please contact Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center or Arizona Game and Fish.
Helpful reminders:
Don’t feed wildlife! Keep them wild.
Secure garbage cans and pick up fallen fruit from fruit trees—coyotes are omnivores and love a fruity snack.
Chaperone pets outside and keep dogs on leash while walking. Avoid retractable leashes.
Don’t allow dogs to chase or play with coyotes. While it’s a myth that coyotes lure dogs into danger, they will protect themselves, their pups, and their dens.
Remember to respect our native wildlife and give them space. It is possible to coexist peacefully with our wild neighbors—after all, they were here first. Coyotes play an important role in our ecosystem, helping keep our food web healthy.
If you have concerns about a coyote’s behavior or believe an animal may be injured or in distress, please contact the appropriate professionals:
Emergency Wildlife Contacts:
• Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (Emergency Line): (480) 433-5656
• Arizona Game and Fish Department: (623) 236-7201
Sources:
•` Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center – Love Is in the Air! It’s Coyote Mating Season (information on timing, behavior, and coexistence with coyotes). Love Is in the Air! It’s Coyote Mating Season – Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center
• University of Arizona Cooperative Extension (CAL-Extension) – Winter/Spring Backyards (coyote breeding biology, litter size, and life cycle). Coyote Biology and Breeding – CALS Backyards (University of Arizona)
• Arizona Game and Fish Department – Wildlife Health Program (general wildlife disease information related to coyotes and other species). Wildlife Health Program – Arizona Game and Fish Department
Meet the Chow Chow!
The Chow Chow traces it's ancestry as far back as the Han Dynasty (150-200 BC) and was a used as a hunting dog during that time. They were first recognized by the AKC in 1903. The London Zoo had these dogs on display in the 1820's as "Wild Dogs of Chine". They became popular when Queen Victoria got one of her very own.
The Chow Chow is described as a very serious, aristoractic breed that can be aloof. They are loyal to their trusted owners, however. They are most known for thier lion-like mane, blue-black tongue, and a siff-legged gate. Their coat can vary from smooth to rough and they are very clean dogs.
Student Spotlight
With National Golden Retriever Day (February 3) coming up it only felt right to bring attention to this good boy, Banjo! Not quite a year old, this boy has proven to be very smart with a goofy sense of humor and is an absolute joy to work with.
🐾 Dog Days of February 🐾
Pet Dental Health Month: Brush those chompers!
Spay/Neauter Awarness Month
February 2 - Groundhog Day
February 3 - National Golden Retriever Day and Doggie Date Night
February 8 - Superbowl LX and Puppy Bowl XXII
February 14 - Valentine's Day
February 20 - Love Your Pet Day
February 22 - Walk Your Dog Day
February 23 - National Dog Biscuit Day
What is the Ideal Doggy Date Night
Sunset Stroll at Your Dog's Favorite Park
Sample Homemade Dog Treats
Doggy Massage
Movie Night
Have a Question?
Have a burning dog related question? Feel free to reach out and maybe your question and the answer may be featured in next month's blog entry!
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