Want to know which dog breeds with curly tails you should consider getting? You’re in luck, because the lineup is pretty amazing!
Many dog breeds exhibit a unique and eye-catching characteristic: curly tails. These tails can range from tight corkscrews to bushy blankets draped over the back, representing remarkable variety among different breeds. Throughout the canine kingdom, each breed has its distinct take on this particular trait, making curly tails a fascinating component in the world of dogs.
Curly-tailed dog breeds come from diverse geographical locations, including Norway, Japan, and other parts of the world. Some of these breeds belong to the Spitz family, which includes Chow Chow, Eurasier, Finnish Lapphund, Norwegian Elkhound, Samoyed, and Swedish Lapphund.
These medium to large-sized dogs possess not only a curly tail but also other shared characteristics, such as a thick double coat to protect them in harsh, cold climates.
Apart from the Spitz family, other curly-tailed breeds include Shiba Inu, a small hunting dog from Japan, and Akita, a large and powerful breed that originates from the mountainous regions of northern Japan.
While each breed has its specific level of tail curliness, these curly tails often serve different purposes, such as providing insulation and aiding in communication among the canines.
21 Popular Dog Breeds With Curly Tails
Akita
The Akita is a large Japanese breed originally used for hunting. They have a thick, double coat and a tightly curled tail. Akitas are known for their protective and loyal nature, making them excellent family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 51-86 lbs
Alaskan Malamute
Originating from Northwestern Alaska, Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength and endurance. They have a plush coat and curly tail, with a friendly and intelligent personalities.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Weight: 75-85 lbs
American Eskimo Dog
This breed, despite its name, did not originate from indigenous Eskimo people. American Eskimo Dogs have a distinctive white, fluffy coat and a curved, fluffy tail. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Sociable and loving, they make great family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Weight: 18-35 lbs
Basenji
The Basenji is a small, athletic breed from Congo, famous for its unique, non-barking vocalizations. With a curly tail and almond-shaped eyes, they have an affectionate and intelligent personality.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Weight: 22-24 lbs
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, originating from Mexico, are one of the smallest dog breeds. They are often seen sporting a curled tail, and have a feisty personality. Their size and weight make them perfect for apartment living.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-20
Weight: 3.3-6.6 lbs
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow, originating from China, has a thick, fluffy coat and a curly tail, along with unique blue-black tongues. Known for their aloof and independent nature, they hold a special place in Chinese culture.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 11-12 years
Weight: 44-71 lbs
Eurasier
Eurasiers are a medium-sized breed hailing from Germany. They have a thick coat and a curly tail, with a friendly and intelligent personality that makes them good family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Weight: 40-71 lbs
Finnish Spitz
Native to Finland, the Finnish Spitz sports a fox-like appearance with a curly tail. They are known for their lively, friendly demeanor and make excellent family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Weight: 15-29 lbs
German Spitz
The German Spitz breed, as the name suggests, hails from Germany. They have a thick, fluffy coat and a curled tail. Known for their lively and friendly nature, they can adapt to various family settings.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Weight: 23-25 lbs
Icelandic Sheepdog
Originating from Iceland, the Icelandic Sheepdog has a thick, double coat and a curly tail. They are active, intelligent, and affectionate dogs that do well in an active family environment.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 24-31 lbs
Keeshond
The Keeshond is a medium-sized breed from the Netherlands. They sport a dense, fluffy coat and a curled tail. Keeshonden are known for their friendly, affectionate, and adaptable nature, making them great family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Weight: 31-40 lbs
Norwegian Buhund
Hailing from Norway, the Norwegian Buhund has a wedge-shaped head, prick ears, and a curled tail. They are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them excellent family dogs.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Weight: 26-40 lbs
Norwegian Elkhound
Another breed from Norway, the Norwegian Elkhound has a thick double coat and a curly tail. They are known for their loyal and friendly personality, making them great companions.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 49-55 lbs
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are a small, fluffy breed originating in Germany. They have a thick double coat and a curly tail. With their friendly and energetic personality, they make excellent family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-16 years
Weight: 4.2-7.7 lbs
Pug
The Pug is a small, affectionate breed from China, known for its short, curled tail and wrinkled face. Pugs are friendly, loving dogs that thrive in a family environment.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 15-20 years
Weight: 14-18 lbs
Samoyed
Originating from Russia, Samoyeds have a thick, white, fluffy coat and a curved, fluffy tail. With their friendly, sociable nature, they make excellent family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Weight: 35-66 lbs
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is a small but muscular Japanese breed known for its thick coat and curled tail. They are the most popular dog breed in Japan and are gaining worldwide popularity.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 15-24 lbs
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky has a thick double coat and a curved, fluffy tail. Originally from Russia, they are known for their intelligence, outgoing nature, and endurance in colder climates.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 35-60 lbs
Swedish Lapphund
Native to Sweden, the Swedish Lapphund has a thick coat and a curly tail. They are known for their loyal and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12 years
Weight: 42-46 lbs
Swedish Vallhund
Another Swedish breed, the Swedish Vallhund has a thick double-coat and a curly tail. They are energetic and intelligent dogs, suitable for active families.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 20-31 lbs
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff, originating from Tibet, has a thick double coat and a curly tail. Known for their protective and loyal nature, they make excellent family guardians.
Breed Information
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Weight: 110-180 lbs
Types of Curly Tails
There are various types of curly tails found in dog breeds. These tails can be classified into three main categories: corkscrew, sickle, and snap tail. Each type has its unique characteristics and can be found in specific dog breeds.
Corkscrew Tails
Corkscrew tails are tightly coiled tails resembling a spiral, usually found in dog breeds with short or compact bodies. Some examples of breeds with corkscrew tails include:
- Akita
- Alaskan Malamute
- Basenji
These tails serve as an easily identifiable characteristic for these breeds and, in some cases, may help keep the dog’s hindquarters warm or clean.
Sickle Tails
Sickle tails have an upward arch and may also curl over the dog’s back. They are common among Spitz-type breeds and other northern breeds. Here are a few breeds that have sickle tails:
- Samoyed
- Finnish Lapphund
- Norwegian Elkhound
- Siberian Husky
These tails aid in distributing the dog’s body heat, acting as a warm layer when they curl over their back.
Snap Tails
Snap tails are similar to corkscrew tails but typically have a tighter curl that resembles a spring-like shape. These tails may be shorter in length or held closer to the body. Some examples of dog breeds with snap tails include:
- Pomeranian
- Chow Chow
- American Eskimo Dog
Snap tails, like other curly tails, can function as an insulating layer in cold climates and as a visual marker identifying the particular breed.
Understanding the different types of curly tails among dog breeds helps pet owners and enthusiasts recognize each breed’s unique qualities. Knowing the function of these tails adds value to our appreciation of these beautiful and loyal companions.
Curly Tail Anatomy and Function
Curly tails in dogs are a result of their unique anatomy, specifically the shape and arrangement of their tail bones or vertebrae. The tail is an extension of a dog’s spine and its shape can range from straight to corkscrew, commonly referred to as a screw tail. The number of tail vertebrae varies between breeds, but the structure and function of curly-tailed breeds share some common features.
The curvature of a curly tail can be attributed to the presence of hemivertebrae, which are wedge-shaped spinal bones that cause the tail to bend. Breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs often possess these abnormal vertebrae, leading to their signature screw tails. On the other hand, breeds such as Akitas, Finnish Spitz, Samoyeds, and Malamutes display a different kind of curly tail, characterized by a smooth arch over the back.
In some breeds, the curly tail serves a functional purpose. For example:
- The Basenji, an African hunting dog, carries its tightly curled tail to maintain balance while running at high speeds.
- The Tibetan Mastiff, a breed with almond-shaped eyes and a thick double coat, uses its slightly curled tail to cover its nose and mouth in cold climates, conserving warmth.
- The Chihuahua, a small and agile breed, utilizes its curled tail to better navigate tight spaces and maintain stability during quick movements.
Genetics plays a significant role in determining a dog’s tail shape. Curling tails are often passed down through generations of a particular breed, influencing appearance as well as breed standards. While the tail is largely an aesthetic feature, it also plays a role in communication. A wagging dog tail can signify various emotions, such as excitement, happiness, or even uncertainty, depending on the speed and position of the wag.
Training can also impact tail position and movement, particularly in all-purpose working dog breeds that rely on their tails for balance and communication. Notable examples include the Akita, known for its loyalty and exemplified in the famous story of Hachiko, who displayed unwavering devotion to its owner. In cases like these, the unique anatomy and function of the curly tail contribute to the dog’s disposition and history.
In conclusion, while a dog’s curly tail is a distinctive and appealing trait, it also serves various functions and carries genetic significance. Furthermore, the physical structure of the curly tail aids in balance, communication, and even warmth preservation, depending on the breed.
Origins and History
The curly-tailed dog breeds have diverse origins, ranging from Asia, Africa, to Scandinavia. These breeds share some physical characteristics such as double coats, curled tails, and often belong to the Spitz family. The Spitz family, which originated in the Arctic and Siberia, has a rich history of working in harsh environments as sled dogs, hunting companions, and watchdogs.
In Japan, the Akita is a breed native to the country and is known for its loyalty, strong work ethic, and curled tail. Another popular Spitz breed is the Keeshond, which hails from the Netherlands and was used as a watchdog on boats. Norwegian Elkhounds, another member of the Spitz family, are known to have worked on farms and accompanied hunters on hunts. Originating in Norway, they have played an essential role in Scandinavian culture for centuries.
The Alaskan Malamute has its roots in the Arctic and was bred by the Inuit tribes to be powerful sled dogs. Sharing similarities with the Spitz family, the Malamute has a double coat and a curly tail, but it is actually part of the broader family of Nordic sled dogs, including Siberian Huskies.
African breeds like the Basenji, which originated in the Congo, have a unique history. As a hunting breed, the Basenji is known for its agility, intelligence, and curled tail. The breed is one of the oldest dog breeds found in early African art and is believed to have been a favorite of the ancient Egyptians.
Chinese breeds such as the Pug also have curly tails and a long history, often being bred as companion animals for Chinese emperors. Pugs are characterized by their stocky bodies and affectionate temperament.
Hound breeds with curled tails include the Norwegian Elkhound, which was initially bred by the Vikings to hunt large game, such as elks and bears. Their curly tails and double coats allowed them to adapt well to the harsh, cold climate of their Norse origins.
American Eskimo Dogs, which are part of the Spitz family, were brought to America by European immigrants. Although they first originated in Northern Europe, they have been bred further in the United States and enjoyed popularity in various roles, including agility and obedience trials.
The anatomy of curly-tailed dogs emphasizes their adaptability to harsh environments. Their double coats provide insulation against cold, while their curled tails offer protection against the elements and help maintain body heat when wrapped over their backs. These unique features allowed these breeds to thrive and work in various roles throughout history.
Curly Tail Dog Breeds FAQ
What dog has a curly tail and doesn’t bark?
The Basenji breed of dog has a curly tail and does not bark but instead vocalizes with yodels and howls.
What kinds of dogs don’t bark much?
There are several breeds of dogs that are known for not barking much. Some of these breeds include:
Basenji, Greyhound, Shar Pei, Afghan Hound, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bernese Mountain Dog, Scottish Deerhound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Japanese Chin, Coton de Tuléar, Whippet, Wheaten Terrier, Shiba Inu, Irish Setter, Saluki, and Glens.