There's something extraordinary about a dog's tail. Many dog owners take it for granted, but the moment you see it wagging in pure happiness or feel it graze by your leg when your pup comes in for a snuggle, you realize just how special these unique appendages are.
The canine kingdom is vast and diverse. There are hundreds of unique breeds, each with physical quirks owners fall in love with. Tails are one of a dog's most distinct physical traits, and there's nothing wrong with wanting a pup with a tail you think is adorable.
Tails can be long, short, fluffy, flowy and everything in between. In this blog, we're focusing on dogs with expressive curly tails. Curly tails are undeniably adorable. Interestingly, they're a byproduct of a congenital condition called hemivertebrae, which causes the tail to take on its signature shape.
Fortunately, curly tails won't impact your dog's health or lifestyle in any way. Instead, they're a stunning physical quirk that will give your pup an unmistakable silhouette. If you're looking for a dog breed with a curly tail, here are 15 worth considering adding to your family.
1. Pug
Pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the country, and it's not hard to see why. These dogs have an instantly recognizable look thanks to their short snouts. Unlike dogs with defined snouts, Pugs have rounded faces, cute underbites and big beady eyes! They're a brachycephalic breed, which comes with unique challenges. But these dogs are adorable nonetheless.
The tail of the Pug has a distinct curl. Pugs have a spinal deviation starting at the lower vertebrae and extending to the tail's bone and cartilage. The deformity creates a natural curl, and some even have double curls!
Overall, Pugs are an adorably spunky breed. They're sociable creatures with tons of charm. Pair that with their openness to strangers; they're fantastic companions for most families.
2. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are dogs you don't see very often in the United States. They have a long history in Japan and are one of the most common companion dogs in that region. However, recent Internet memes featuring this lovable breed are quickly making it a worldwide sensation!
Shiba Inu dogs have thick coats of fluffy fur and wide triangle-shaped ears. Their fur can be varying colors, but one of the most common is rich orange-tan. White covers the underside of the dog, creating a beautiful color pattern.
This dog's tail is fluffy and curled. The curl can be a subtle sickle shape or a full circle-like curl. Thanks to the long fur, the curl creates a beautiful plumage that sits on the dog's back.
3. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a stunning dog known for its thick double fur coat. These dogs shed like crazy, but their fur is instrumental in helping them stay warm in tough environments. As their name suggests, Alaskan Malamutes hail from the icy regions of North America, around Alaska and areas as far east as Siberia.
These dogs look very similar to Siberian Huskies. However, putting the two breeds side by side highlights many core differences. The biggest is their size. Alaskan Malamutes are significantly bigger than their Siberian counterparts, weighing up to 85 pounds fully grown.
The tail is also fluffier and curled. This breed's tail often stands up and curls into the back, creating a tuft of fur.
4. Samoyed
The Samoyed is another breed with a long history of living in the Arctic. These dogs come from Siberia and have thick coats of fur to prove it! Most Samoyeds have double-coated fur in pure white, which is perfect for snowy camouflage.
Samoyeds are spitz-type dogs. Therefore, they have triangular snouts and perky pointed ears. Their fur tends to grow thick around the neck and upper body, giving the dog a lion-like look.
Towards their rear, you'll find a curled tail of fluff. Like Alaskan Malamutes, the curl causes the tail to sit on the lower back when running and playing.
5. Basenji
Next up, we have the beautiful Basenji. These dogs hail from Africa. They're on the smaller size, standing up to 17 inches at the withers and only weighing around 24 pounds. But don't let their smaller stature fool you. These dogs are very capable!
They're natural-born athletes and predators. Their lean bodies and short, slick fur allow them to cut through air resistance as they reach truly impressive speeds.
The tail is one of the Basenji's most recognizable physical features. It features a tight curl and sits high on the hindquarters. Oftentimes, the tail will form a near-perfect circle. Some dogs will have a double curl.
Basenji dogs have a distinct gait. They move swiftly and graciously, and many believe their tails contribute to their movement.
6. Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a unique dog with a long history. It originated in Norway and reportedly accompanied Vikings during their conquests. They're strong, medium-sized dogs. Adults usually weigh around 55 pounds and stand tall at 21 inches.
Even with their comparatively small bodies, Norwegian Elkhounds are natural-born hunters. They're capable of taking down elk, which is why many refer to them as "Elkies."
These dogs have thick coats of fur. They usually have a "salt and pepper" color combination, featuring patches of gray-white and black. The tail is a curly beauty. It has a prominent upward curve, making the bottom fur fall down to create a beautiful fan.
7. Swedish Vallhund
Here's a dog that most people can't help but fall in love with! The Swedish Vallhund looks like a ferocious spitz dog from the neck up. They're sporting triangular faces, fierce cowls and pointed ears. Many say they look similar to German Shepherds and other similar-looking dogs.
But once you look down, you'll see what makes the Swedish Vallhund so unique. They have short and stubby legs like a Corgi or Dachshund! Most Swedish Vallhunds only stand around 13 inches tall.
These dogs are energetic and lively. They don't let their small stature get in the way. Of course, the tail is a signature physical feature. Like other dogs on this list, it has a prominent curve upward, resulting in a near-perfect circular shape.
8. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are an ancient dog breed. Records of these pups existing alongside Chinese nobility go back 200-plus years BCE. Today, they're just as popular.
These dogs have thick coats of tan-colored fur and large bodies. Full-grown Chow Chows can weigh up to 70 pounds, and many dogs will develop large rolls of sagging skin. It creates unique patterns on the face and body.
Chow Chows are independent but loyal dogs. They can be aloof with people they don't know, but they will stick by their humans through anything!
These dogs have a unique look from head to tail, with a signature curl that complements the rest of their fluffy body.
9. Pomeranian
If you prefer a smaller dog, the Pomeranian is an excellent furry friend you can take virtually anywhere. Adults barely make it to 10 pounds. They're the personification of "pint-sized!"
Pomeranians are known for their somewhat high-maintenance coats. Their fur grows long, creating a thick main of hair that can be tangle-prone. That furriness continues on the tail. With the tail's curve, you get a cute plumage. Many Pomeranian owners will groom those tails to perfection, with some even dying the fur to exotic colors.
It's a cool fashion accessory; most Pomeranians don't mind the extra pizzazz!
10. Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is one of the oldest breeds around. It originated in the Middle East, where they're still prominent today. Some of the oldest remains of Canaan Dogs date back over 9,000 years.
This agile and lean breed has a tail that curls up to create an attractive plume of fur. While its fur isn't nearly as thick as some other dogs on this list, the hair grows a little thicker on the tail to give the canine a unique look.
Most Canaan Dogs work on pastures. They make fantastic livestock guardians and often work to keep entire properties safe. They're naturally suspicious of strangers, so they can alert their human family members of potential danger whenever it comes.
11. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. Fully grown Tibetan Mastiffs weigh a whopping 180 pounds! They have ultra-thick fur in dark shades of black and brown. From a distance, it's easy to mistake these pups for lions or bears!
Despite their ferocious looks, Tibetan Mastiffs can be quite loving in the right home. They're naturally stubborn and require some patience to train. But with some vigilance, these dogs can make excellent companions. Their protective nature will keep you safe. Meanwhile, their intimidating looks and curly tails make these dogs the talk of the town, wherever they may live.
12. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a beautiful medium-sized dog with tons of personality. It has shorter fur than other spitz-type dogs, but it still requires a good amount of maintenance to control shedding. Overall, these dogs have an athletic build. It complements their playful nature.
Most Finnish Spitz dogs have a rich orange-brown color with white on the underbelly, face and tail. The tail curls up and usually stays perky. The curl creates a tight curl that bobs and moves as the dog prances around, having fun.
Interestingly, the Finnish Spitz was once on the verge of extinction. Thankfully, some dedicated breeders revitalized the breed, allowing dog lovers everywhere to enjoy everything they offer.
13. Keeshond
The Keeshond is another one of those lesser-known breeds that more people should know about. These dogs are gorgeous! They have massive, fluffy, pillow-like fur that covers the entire body. It grows long around the neck to mimic a lion's mane. It's also prominent on the tail to complement that signature curl.
All that fur can be a grooming nightmare, but any Keeshond owner will tell you it's worth it. This breed is known for its lovable temperament. They're surprisingly social and can get along well with other people and animals.
14. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise's tail isn't as curly as others on this list. Furthermore, it can spend some time down, making its curl even less noticeable. But when your Bichon is happy and playing, there's a good chance it'll perk up to create a beautiful curly plume!
This small breed is the quintessential lap dog. It also has a thick coat of curly white fur. Many say they look like little stuffed animals, and it's not hard to see why when you encounter a Bichon Frise desperately needing a trim! Either way, their small size and fur make them perfect for snuggling.
Grooming these beauties can be a hassle, but it's worth the trouble to call these lovable and playful creatures your own.
15. Akita
Last but not least, we have the Akita. These attractive spitz dogs come from Japan. They play an important role in Japan's history and culture, making them highly revered in the area.
From a looks standpoint, there's a lot to love about Akitas. They have thick fur in many different colors, perky ears and a fuzzy curled tail. In pictures, they look similar to other spitz-type dogs. However, Akitas are more massive than most realize. Bigger adults can weigh up to 130 pounds!
Akitas are notoriously aloof and suspicious of strangers. They can be stubborn, so these dogs require vigilant training and socialization.
Raise One for the Curly-Tailed Canines
If you can't resist the adorable looks of a curly tail, you have plenty of great dogs to consider adopting into your family. Of course, you should never choose a breed based on its looks alone. These dogs share the common trait of a curly tail but differ greatly in temperament and trainability.
Do your due diligence to find a pup you can easily handle over the long haul. With some preparation and training, any of these curly-tailed canines will be a faithful and adorable companion.
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