The coyote has a stocky build. It is usually smaller than the gray wolf, but has longer ears and a relatively larger skull, as well as a leaner body and muzzle.

Males typically weigh between 8 and 20 kilograms, and females between 7 and 18 kilograms, although their size varies depending on where they live.

Body length varies from 1 to 1.35 meters, and height at the withers is 58-66 cm. Coyotes have a 40 cm long tail. At the top of the base of the tail are scent glands that are blue-black in color.