15 Dog Breeds With Curly Tails: Pictures, Facts & History

15 Captivating Dog Breeds with Curly Tails
By Dr. [H], Veterinarian and Dog Enthusiast

Introduction
Have you ever noticed how some dogs have tails that curl up and over their backs? It‘s an endearing physical feature that makes certain breeds immediately recognizable, like Shiba Inus, Huskies, and Pomeranians. As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘ve always been fascinated by the curly tails sported by many of the Spitz family of dogs.

So what causes a dog‘s tail to curl, and which breeds characteristically have this trait? In this post, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the most popular dog breeds with curled tails and what makes each of them unique. Whether you‘re considering adding one of these captivating canines to your family or you‘re simply curious to learn more, read on to discover 15 dog breeds with unforgettable curly tails.

The Biology Behind Curly Tails
From a medical perspective, a dog‘s curled tail is a result of a congenital vertebral malformation called hemivertebrae. With hemivertebrae, the vertebrae in the tail are wedge-shaped or fused, causing the tail to permanently curl over the dog‘s back. It‘s a hereditary trait that is written in the genetic code of certain breeds.

Rest assured, in most cases a curled tail is purely a cosmetic feature that doesn‘t negatively impact the dog‘s health or quality of life. It‘s a distinctive physical characteristic, similar to the wrinkled skin of a Shar Pei or the long, flowing locks of an Afghan Hound. Now that we‘ve covered the "why" behind curly tails, let‘s meet some of the most iconic breeds that possess them!

1. Shiba Inu
   The Shiba Inu is a compact, muscular breed that hails from Japan. Weighing 20-25 pounds on average, the Shiba has a dense double coat, pointy ears, and a tail that curls jauntily over his back. This ancient breed was originally developed for hunting in Japan‘s mountainous regions, prized for their agility and bold, independent spirit.

As a pet, Shibas are active, strong-willed companions that prefer to be the only animal in the home. They can be possessive of toys and food and may not tolerate young children. Shibas benefit from early socialization and constant companionship to curb destructive behaviors. With proper care and training, this foxy-faced breed with an unforgettable curled tail makes a loyal and entertaining addition to the home.

2. Akita
   Another curly-tailed breed with roots in Japan is the Akita. The Akita is a powerful, heavy-boned dog weighing up to 100 pounds or more. Originally used for hunting boar, elk and the fearsome Yezo bear, the Akita retains a strong prey drive to this day. Their pursed lips, dark intelligent eyes, and large curling tail give the Akita an alert, dignified appearance.

The Akita‘s profuse double coat requires weekly brushing, and they shed heavily once or twice a year. Reserved with strangers and protective of their families, Akitas need an experienced, confident leader who can provide consistent training. With their humans, Akitas are extraordinarily devoted and make calm, noble companions. A well-socialized Akita is a wonderful guardian and friend for life.

3. Alaskan Malamute
   The Alaskan Malamute is an impressive Nordic breed known for their immense strength and endurance. One of the oldest sledge dog breeds native to Alaska, Malamutes were developed by the indigenous Mahlemut people for hauling heavy loads across vast frozen expanses. A male Malamute can stand 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 95 pounds.

The Malamute‘s facial markings, plumed tail, and thick, woolly coat make them wolf-like in appearance. But don‘t be fooled – the Malamute is a friendly, outgoing breed that thrives on human companionship. Mals are pack-oriented dogs that do best with an active family that can give them plenty of outdoor exercise. Novice owners may find the Malamute‘s size and strength challenging, but with patient training and socialization, this curly-tailed charmer is a devoted and delightful companion.

4. Samoyed
   Instantly recognizable for their luxurious white coats and "smiling" expression, the Samoyed is a medium-sized working breed from Siberia. The semi-nomadic Samoyed people relied on these versatile dogs for herding reindeer, pulling sleds, and keeping their owners warm in the brutal arctic climate. The Samoyed‘s standout feature is a tail that curves up and forward, sometimes even touching his back.

Samoyeds are smart, social, and mischievous dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Though generally friendly with everyone, Sammies can be boisterous and may knock over small children in play. Grooming the Samoyed‘s profuse double coat is time-consuming, and frequent brushing is a must to prevent matting. For an active owner that enjoys the outdoors, the joyful Samoyed is an affectionate, eager-to-please companion.

5. Chow Chow
   With their lion-like ruff of fur and distinctively curled tail, Chow Chows are an ancient breed that originated in China. Chows are powerfully built dogs standing up to 20 inches tall and weighing 45-70 pounds. Prized as a food source and clothing material in their early history, Chows later became the cherished companions of Chinese nobility.

The Chow‘s temperament is cat-like – aloof, independent, and stubborn. Chows are fiercely protective of their families and can be aggressive towards dogs they don‘t know. As a result, it‘s essential that Chows be socialized from a young age and trained by an experienced, consistent owner. The breed‘s short, dense double coat requires frequent grooming. Though not a breed for everyone, a well-trained Chow is a calm, regal companion.

6. Pomeranian
   The tiny Pomeranian is a member of the Spitz family, descended from large sled dog breeds. Queen Victoria of England is credited with breeding down the Pomeranian into the compact companion dog we know today, weighing just 3-7 pounds. What the Pom lacks in size, he makes up for in personality, with a plumed tail carried jauntily over his back.

Poms are vivacious, animated companions that need surprisingly little in the way of exercise. A short daily walk and some indoor playtime are usually sufficient to keep these diminutive dogs happy. With their foxy faces and abundant double coats, Pomeranians do need regular brushing to stay tidy. These extroverted little charmers make excellent city pets and are a top choice for those wanting a portable, low-maintenance companion.

7. Keeshond
   Known as "the Smiling Dutchman," the Keeshond (pronounced "kayz-hawnd") is a medium-sized Spitz breed hailing from Holland. A male Keeshond typically weighs 35-40 pounds and has a distinctive mane of hair around the neck, pointy ears, and a plumed tail that curves tightly over his back. Keeshonden were originally bred as watchdogs and companions on Dutch barges.

Keeshonden are outgoing, people-pleasing companions that get along well with everyone. Highly trainable and attuned to their owners‘ wishes, Keeshonden are a great choice for novice dog owners. The breed‘s lush double coat sheds heavily and requires brushing several times a week. For an amiable family pet that loves to be in the thick of household activity, it‘s hard to go wrong with a Keeshond.

8. Norwegian Elkhound
   The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy hunting breed with a curled tail, erect ears, and a thick silver-gray coat. Weighing up to 55 pounds, Elkhounds were developed in Norway to track and hold large game like moose and bear until the hunter could arrive. An Elkhound‘s energy, courage, and stamina are remarkable even by hunting breed standards.

As a pet, Elkhounds retain a strong prey drive and a tendency to roam if left unsupervised. A securely fenced yard is a must, as is plenty of vigorous exercise to keep the Elkhound happy. The breed‘s dense double coat should be brushed several times a week, and Elkhounds "blow" their undercoats twice a year. When socialized young and given proper training and exercise, this curly-tailed Viking makes an affectionate, even-tempered companion.

9. Finnish Spitz
   Called the Suomenpystykorva in his native Finland, the Finkie is a foxy-faced hunting breed known for his lively expression and ringed tail that curves vigorously over his back. Considered a national treasure in Finland, the Finnish Spitz was originally developed as an all-purpose hunting dog, used for hunting gamebirds and small mammals.

Finnish Spitz are playful, intelligent, and crave human companionship. Finkies make excellent watchdogs and will alert their families with loud, ringing barks. The breed needs gentle, patient training and plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. With his lush golden-red coat and adorable curled tail, the Finnish Spitz is a stunning and spirited addition to the active home.

10. Basenji
    The unique Basenji is a small hound dog native to Africa, instantly recognizable for his wrinkled brow, pricked ears, and tightly curled tail. The breed earned the name "barkless dog" for his inability to bark – instead, Basenjis make a yodeling noise somewhere between a chortle and a howl when excited. Basenjis were originally used for hunting by peoples in the Congo region.

With a sleek, athletic frame and graceful movements, the Basenji is a fastidious breed that grooms himself like a cat. As pets, Basenjis are independent freethinkers with loads of personality and energy to burn. The breed needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. For experienced owners that enjoy an active lifestyle, the entertaining Basenji is a phenomenal companion.

Conclusion
Whether pint-sized like the Pomeranian or powerful like the Akita, dog breeds with curled tails never fail to charm and captivate us. From the foxlike Shiba Inu to the wolf-like Malamute, each curly-tailed breed has its own unique appearance and personality. Many of these Spitz-type breeds make excellent family companions when given proper training, socialization, and exercise.

As a veterinarian, I hope I‘ve given you a new appreciation for the genetics behind curled tails as well as the special care considerations many of these double-coated breeds require. Whether you choose to welcome one into your heart and home or simply admire them from afar, dog breeds with curled tails are truly a wonder to behold.