German shepherds are good size dogs. The coyotes shouldn't mess with them but ya never know. If the coyotes come in force with others and they out number the dogs, there may be an issue. Most people say dogs are good to keep coyotes and other varmints away. Good luck!i saw a half grown coyote run across my front yard this morning. i have two german shepherds in the back. the chickens are in an open topped run on the side. will the coyotes risk the dogs to get to the chickens?