Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and their tails are no exception. For dog lovers who are particularly fond of a curly tail, there are many breeds that fit the bill. In this article, we will explore 15 different dogs that have cute, curly tails that seem to have a mind of their own.
1. Pug
The Pug is one of the most recognizable curly tailed breeds. Their tails curl up and over their backs in a tight corkscrew. Pugs come in three different coat types – smooth, double, and rough coats, but all have the distinct curly tail. These small, wrinkly faced dogs make excellent companions and their spiraled tails seem to be constantly wagging and expressing their happy go lucky personalities.
2. French Bulldog
Similar to the Pug, French Bulldogs also have trademark corkscrew tails. They hold their curly tails upright and the curvature can be so severe that the tails are almost flush against their backs. Frenchies have a playful nature and their curly tails are a giveaway to their happy mood. Owners need to watch for tail injuries as their tightly coiled tails can be prone to cuts, sores, and even fractures.
3. English Bulldog
The Bulldog’s curly tail is more subtle than a Pug’s or Frenchie’s but it is still a distinguishing feature of the breed. Their short, “screw” tails accentuate their sturdy, compact build. The curly tail on this breed serves a purpose beyond looking adorable – it provides Bulldogs with balance and stability. For a breed built low to the ground, the counterbalance gives them agility.
4. Schipperke
This Belgian breed is sometimes called the “little black devil” for their mischievous personalities. The Schipperke has a tail that curls up and over their back similar to a Pug but not as tightly wrapped. Their tails have thick, black fur that adds volume to the already plush, fox-like coat of the Schipperke. Their Spitz heritage is apparent in their curled tails and pointed ears.
5. Norwegian Lundehund
As one of the ancient breeds of the Arctic Spitz family, the Norwegian Lundehund has a very distinctive curly tail. Unlike most dogs that curl their tails over their backs, this breed usually curls their long, fluffy tails alongside their bodies. The flexibility of their tails aided the agile Lundehund in their original role – climbing rocky cliffs to hunt puffins. Their corkscrew tails work like a spring to provide stability and balance.
6. Finnish Spitz
This lively breed originated as a hunting dog in Finland. They use their curly tails to communicate – the curl stretching tighter when they are alert or excited. Finnish Spitz tails curve over their backs but are not tightly wrapped like other Spitz breeds. Their feathery, plumed tails sit a bit looser. This foxy faced breed has a double coat built to withstand cold climates and their curled tails are prime showpieces of their lush fur.
7. American Eskimo Dog
This Nordic breed has a long, thick, plush coat and a signature plumed, curly tail. Their tails curl over their backs and the furry tail completes their status as a royal-looking white Spitz. American Eskimo Dogs have a playful demeanor and their tails are constantly wagging and expressing their enthusiasm. The curl of their tails wraps tighter when they are alert or excited.
8. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a purebred breed that originates from Siberia. They were bred by the Chukchi people to pull sleds over long distances. Huskies are known for their striking blue eyes, thick coat, alert expression, and of course, their furry, curled tails. Their tails are not as tightly curled as other Spitz breeds but the plumed tails curl up and over their backs. When a Husky is relaxed, their tails unwind to hang down straight.
9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is characterized by their fox-like face, stubby legs, and of course, their distinctive curly tails. Their tails are not as pronounced as a Spitz breed but have a clear curl that comes from their Spitz lineage. Corgis have a playful, upbeat personality and their curly tails are constantly wagging in excitement. Owners need to watch for injuries as their short stature means their tails are prone to getting stepped or sat on.
10. Norwegian Buhund
This ancient Norse breed has a tightly curled tail that lays flat against their back. The Norwegian Buhund was used as an all-purpose farm and herding dog and their alert, energetic demeanor shines through in their tightly-coiled tails. When they are at ease, Buhund tails uncurl slightly but the curl remains. The base of the tail is set high on their rear end which contributes to the dramatic curl upwards.
11. Basenji
The Basenji’s tight, Sausage-shaped curled tail fans outwards and upward. It curls tightly against their back but does not have as much plush fur as the northern breeds. This primitive hound has a short, sleek coat more suited for the African climate it originated from than the Arctic. The Basenji expresses itself through its curly tail – much like other breeds, it curls tighter when alert or excited.
12. Akita
The Akita’s thick, furry tail characteristically curls up and rolls over their back in a loose curl. Their large stature and thick double coat give their tails a plush, rounded shape compared to other breeds. Akitas are a powerful working breed from Japan and their curled tails reflect their alert, responsive temperament. A distinguishing feature of the breed is that Akitas hold their tails proudly upright when relaxed.
13. Shiba Inu
This ancient Japanese breed is the smallest of the six original Spitz breeds of Japan. Like its larger counterpart the Akita, the Shiba Inu carries their tails curled over their backs. Their tails have longer fur and create a more dramatic plume. Shibas have a bold, spirited personality evident in how they carry their curled tails high when alert. Their tails can unwind when relaxed but usually maintain a slight curl.
14. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow’s thick, plush coat and distinctive blue-black tongue are signature traits of the breed, along with their curly tail. Their tails curl up and over their backs but the fur is not as pronounced as the northern breeds. Chows are quiet, independent, dignified dogs and their curled tails conveys their calm, noble nature. Their tails remain curled even when relaxed, with just a slight unwinding.
15. Samoyed
This large Russian herding dog breed carries their long, luxurious white coat with pride. The Samoyed has a gently curled tail that drapes over their back and blends into their thick fur, almost like a plume or scarf. Their tail shape mirrors the graceful, gentle personality of this Arctic breed. Samoyeds hold their plumed tails upright and proudly over their backs, tightening slightly when excited or alert.
In Summary
For canine enthusiasts who are partial to curly tails, there is delightful diversity to choose from. Northern breeds like the Samoyed and Norwegian Buhund have long furry corkscrew tails, while other breeds like the Pug have tight curly tails. Smaller dogs like the Corgi and larger breeds like the Akita all display charming curled tails. Next time you spot a curly tail, you can enjoy guessing which breed it might be!
