14 Dog Breeds With Curly Tails

There’s something undeniably charming about a dog with a curly tail. Whether it’s a tightly coiled spiral or a gentle curve over the back, these distinctive tails add character and charm to our canine companions. While many dog lovers admire this unique feature, few understand the fascinating anatomical structure that creates these adorable curls. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of dog breeds with curly tails, diving deep into the science behind this captivating trait and introducing you to 14 remarkable breeds that sport this distinctive feature.

Understanding the Curly Tail: More Than Just Aesthetics

The secret behind these enchanting curly tails lies in a specific anatomical feature called hemivertebrae. This unique condition occurs when the tail vertebrae develop in a wedge-shaped pattern rather than the typical rectangular shape. The wedged vertebrae create a natural curve or spiral in the tail, resulting in the characteristic curl we see in certain breeds.

While hemivertebrae in the tail area is generally harmless, it’s important to note that this same condition in other parts of the spine can cause health issues. However, when limited to the tail region, it’s considered a normal breed characteristic that rarely causes problems. The degree of curl can vary significantly between breeds and even individual dogs, with some sporting tight corkscrew curls while others display a more relaxed curve.

Care Considerations for Curly Tails

Contrary to what some might think, curly tails don’t require special maintenance beyond regular grooming. However, owners should pay attention to keeping the area underneath the curl clean and dry, especially in breeds with particularly tight curls, to prevent moisture-related skin issues.

The 14 Most Notable Dog Breeds With Curly Tails

1. Pug

These charming companions have been winning hearts for centuries with their distinctive curly tails and wrinkled faces. Originally bred as lap dogs for Chinese nobility during the Han dynasty (206 BC to 200 AD), Pugs have maintained their status as beloved family pets.

Their tails typically curl tightly over their backs, forming what breed enthusiasts call a “double curl.” When particularly happy or excited, Pugs may curl their tails even tighter, though some individuals might have looser curls due to genetic variation.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Toy Group
• Height: 10-13 inches
• Weight: 14-18 pounds
• Personality: Charming, mischievous, loving
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Coat and Color: Short, smooth; fawn or black
• Life Span: 12-15 years

According to Dr. Sarah Thompson, DVM, “Pugs’ curly tails are as unique as their personalities. While the curl is a breed standard, what’s most important is that the tail moves freely and doesn’t cause any discomfort to the dog.”

2. Siberian Husky

The majestic Siberian Husky carries its tail in a distinctive sickle curve or gentle curl over the back. Fascinating fact: their tail position often indicates their mood. A relaxed, loosely curled tail typically signals a content Husky, while a tightly curled tail might indicate excitement or alertness.

Originally bred by the Chukchi people of northeastern Asia, these dogs were developed for sledding in harsh Arctic conditions. Their curled tail served a practical purpose, helping them stay warm by covering their nose while sleeping in extreme cold.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Working Group
• Height: 20-23.5 inches
• Weight: 35-60 pounds
• Personality: Independent, friendly, adventurous
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Double coat; various colors and patterns
• Life Span: 12-14 years

“The Husky’s tail is not just beautiful—it’s functional,” notes experienced breeder Maria Gonzalez. “When they curl up to sleep, the tail covers their nose and face, creating a natural warming system in cold weather.”

3. Akita

The noble Akita carries its large, thick tail in a proud curl over its back. This ancient Japanese breed’s tail curl is one of its most distinctive features, typically forming a full or double curl that rests against the back or flank.

Originally bred as hunting and guard dogs for Japanese nobility, Akitas have a rich history dating back to feudal Japan. Their curly tail not only adds to their regal appearance but also helped protect them from the harsh winter conditions of their mountainous homeland.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Working Group
• Height: 24-28 inches
• Weight: 70-130 pounds
• Personality: Loyal, dignified, courageous
• Energy Level: Moderate to High
• Coat and Color: Double coat; various colors including brindle, white, and pinto
• Life Span: 10-13 years

Dr. James Wilson, a veterinary specialist in breed genetics, notes: “The Akita’s tail curl is one of the most pronounced among large breeds. It’s a defining characteristic that’s been carefully preserved through generations of breeding.”

4. Shiba Inu

Often called the “little fox” of Japan, the Shiba Inu sports a distinctive curly tail that adds to its fox-like appearance. The tail is typically carried in a sickle or curved position over the back, moving animatedly with the dog’s changing moods.

This ancient Japanese breed was originally used for hunting in the mountainous regions of Japan, where their agility and keen senses made them excellent small game hunters. Today, they’re beloved companion dogs known for their independent spirit and charming personality.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Height: 13.5-16.5 inches
• Weight: 17-23 pounds
• Personality: Independent, alert, intelligent
• Energy Level: Moderate to High
• Coat and Color: Double coat; red, cream, black and tan, or sesame
• Life Span: 12-15 years

“Shiba Inus have what we call the ‘triple threat’ of charm: the fox-like face, the proud stance, and that magnificent curly tail,” says breed specialist Lisa Chen. “Their tail position can be a great indicator of their mood – the tighter the curl, often the more excited they are.”

5. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz boasts a magnificent tail that curves forward over the back, creating an elegant silhouette. When alert or excited, the tail forms a tighter curl, adding to the breed’s alert and lively expression.

Developed in Finland for hunting small game and birds, these dogs used their distinctive bark and tail positions to signal to hunters. Their curly tail served both as a visual marker in deep snow and as protection against harsh Arctic conditions.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Height: 15-20 inches
• Weight: 20-33 pounds
• Personality: Active, friendly, vocal
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Double coat; golden-red
• Life Span: 12-15 years

Veteran breeder Thomas Anderson explains: “The Finnish Spitz’s tail is not just decorative – it’s a communication tool. When they’re tracking or alerting to something interesting, you’ll see their tail position change distinctively.”

6. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow’s tail is characteristically carried high and curved over the back, contributing to its bear-like appearance. The thick fur around their tail adds to their distinctive silhouette, making it appear even more pronounced.

This ancient Chinese breed, with a history spanning over 2,000 years, was originally used for hunting, herding, and guarding. Their curly tail, combined with their thick double coat, helped protect them from severe weather conditions.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Height: 17-20 inches
• Weight: 45-70 pounds
• Personality: Independent, dignified, loyal
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Coat and Color: Thick double coat; various colors including red, black, blue, cream
• Life Span: 8-12 years

7. Basenji

The Basenji’s tail is set high and curves forward in a graceful curl, often described as a “corkscrew.” This unique tail position adds to their elegant, alert appearance and distinguishes them from other breeds.

The Basenji sometimes referred to as Africa’s “barkless dog,” is among the world’s oldest canine breeds. Originally used for hunting in the Congo region, their curled tail helped hunters spot them in tall grass and dense vegetation during hunts.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Hound Group
• Height: 16-17 inches
• Weight: 22-24 pounds
• Personality: Independent, intelligent, curious
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Short, fine coat; chestnut red, black, tricolor, or brindle with white
• Life Span: 13-14 years

“Basenjis are unique not just for their vocalizations, but also for their distinctive tail set,” explains Dr. Emily Roberts, canine behaviorist. “Their tail curl is typically looser than some other breeds, but it’s always carried with the same elegant pride that characterizes the breed.”

8. Spitz

The Spitz family of dogs, including the American Eskimo Dog, typically features a heavily plumed tail carried in a curve over the back. Their tail curl combines with their thick fur to create a distinctive silhouette that’s both beautiful and functional.

These dogs were developed in northern regions where their curled tails served a crucial purpose – providing additional warmth when curled up in cold weather. The tail would often be used to cover their nose and face while sleeping.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Height: 9-19 inches (varies by size variety)
• Weight: 6-35 pounds (varies by size variety)
• Personality: Alert, friendly, intelligent
• Energy Level: Moderate to High
• Coat and Color: Dense double coat; white
• Life Span: 13-15 years

9. Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound carries its tightly curled tail over its back, creating a distinctive profile that’s been maintained for thousands of years. The tail’s thick fur and curved position served practical purposes in their original hunting role.

These ancient dogs were bred to hunt moose and other large game in the harsh Norwegian climate. Their curled tail helped protect them from the cold while resting in the snow between hunting sessions.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Hound Group
• Height: 19-20 inches
• Weight: 48-55 pounds
• Personality: Bold, energetic, independent
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Thick gray double coat with black tips
• Life Span: 12-15 years

Breed specialist Karen Peterson notes: “The Elkhound’s tail is a testament to their Nordic heritage. When they curl up to sleep, the tail provides crucial warmth protection for their face and nose.”

10. Samoyed

The Samoyed’s tail is one of their most striking features, carried curved over the back and often draped to one side. Their thick, fluffy tail adds to their famous “Sammy smile” appearance and serves practical purposes.

Originally bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia for herding reindeer, pulling sleds, and keeping their owners warm, these dogs used their curled tails as natural face warmers in arctic conditions.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Working Group
• Height: 19-23.5 inches
• Weight: 35-65 pounds
• Personality: Friendly, gentle, adaptable
• Energy Level: High
• Thick double coat in either cream, white and biscuit, or pure white
• Life Span: 12-14 years

In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, the Samoyed’s tail is a vital component of its cold-weather survival strategy, according to Dr. Michael Chang, a veterinary historian. “When they curl up in the snow, their tail wraps around their face, creating a warm air pocket for breathing.”

11. Kai Ken

The Kai Ken, one of Japan’s rarest native breeds, carries its tail curved over its back in a sickle or curl formation. Depending on the dog’s attitude and level of awareness, the tail position changes.

These ancient Japanese hunting dogs were prized for their agility and tracking abilities in mountainous terrain. Their curled tail helped hunters spot them in dense undergrowth and served as protection in cold weather.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Not AKC recognized (recognized by JKC)
• Height: 15.5-19.5 inches
• Weight: 20-40 pounds
• Personality: Loyal, intelligent, alert
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Double coat; brindle in various shades
• Life Span: 12-15 years

12. Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback’s tail is carried upward in a curve or sickle shape, though the curl is typically not as tight as some other Asian breeds. This unique tail carriage adds to their athletic, elegant appearance.

Originally developed in Thailand for hunting and carting, these dogs needed to be agile and strong. Their moderately curled tail helped maintain balance during quick directional changes while pursuing the game.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Not AKC recognized (recognized by FCI)
• Height: 20-24 inches
• Weight: 35-75 pounds
• Personality: Protective, loyal, independent
• Energy Level: High
• Coat and Color: Short coat; blue, black, red, or fawn
• Life Span: 12-13 years

13. Keeshond

The Keeshond’s tail is set high and carried curled tightly over the back, covered in thick, plush fur that adds to their fox-like appearance. The tail curl is one of their most distinctive features, along with their “spectacles” markings around the eyes.

Originally bred as Dutch barge dogs, these medium-sized spitz-type dogs served as excellent watchdogs and companions. Their curled tail helped protect them from the damp, cold conditions common on the waterways of Holland.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Height: 17-18 inches
• Weight: 35-45 pounds
• Personality: Friendly, outgoing, intelligent
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Thick double coat in a blend of cream, black, and gray
• Life Span: 12-15 years

14. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute’s tail is carried over the back in a loose to moderate curl, well furnished with thick fur. When alert or in motion, the tail is typically held higher with a more pronounced curve.

These powerful sled dogs were developed by the Mahlemut people of Alaska for hauling heavy loads in arctic conditions. Their curled tail served as both a balance aid while working and a way to stay warm during rest periods.

Breed Overview:

• Group: Working Group
• Height: 23-25 inches
• Weight: 75-85 pounds
• Personality: Friendly, devoted, strong-willed
• Energy Level: Very High
• Coat and Color: Thick double coat; various colors with white
• Life Span: 10-12 years

Finding Your Perfect Curly-Tailed Companion

Choosing the right dog breed is about more than just admiring their curly tails. When choosing your ideal match, take into account these important factors:

• Living Space: Some curly-tailed breeds, like the Pug, adapt well to apartment living, while others, like the Siberian Husky, need considerable space and exercise.
• Activity Level: Match your energy and lifestyle with your dog’s exercise needs.
• Grooming Requirements: Some breeds require minimal grooming, while others need regular professional care.
• Climate Considerations: Certain breeds are better suited to specific climates due to their coat type and overall build.

Responsible Adoption and Breeding

When bringing a curly-tailed companion into your life, consider adoption first. Many breed-specific rescue organizations specialize in these dogs, offering wonderful opportunities to give a deserving pet a loving home.

If working with a breeder, ensure they:

• Conduct appropriate health testing for breed-specific issues
• Provide documentation of genetic screening
• Allow you to meet the puppy’s parents when possible
• Maintain clean, healthy living conditions for their dogs
• Show genuine concern for their puppies’ long-term welfare

Conclusion

Dog breeds with curly tails represent a fascinating subset of our canine companions, each bringing its unique charm and characteristics to the family dynamic. From the regal Akita to the playful Pug, these breeds showcase the wonderful diversity within the dog world. Whether you’re drawn to their distinctive appearance or captivated by their unique personalities, understanding the science behind their curly tails adds another layer of appreciation for these remarkable animals.