There's coyotes scattered around here in Peel Region, I've never seen more than one at a time, but years ago, a man walking his dog on the biking paths here, had his pet attacked and killed by a pack of coyotes. I'm guessing it was a small pack but it's surprising they attacked with the owner there as generally they stay well away from people. Personally, I'd call up the town and have them remove/relocate them, but I live in semi-urban type area.
We have a similar story - We know a man that was walking his dog at dusk near a wooded area. A coyote sprang from ambush, attacked and killed the dog - while the owner was holding the leash. I would think that when they are in a small "pack" that they are probably bolder than when alone. I can assure you that I was doing my best "rear guard" impression last night when I was bringing the dogs in from their lot to the house.
I think one of the things bothering me is the close proximity to the house and the fact that familiarity has apparently bred contempt within the coyotes towards humans.
