14 Dog Breeds with Curly Tails

Few traits rival the charm of a dog with a curly tail. This trait arises from the unique structure of a dog's tail vertebrae. Normally, the vertebrae that make up a dog's tail are somewhat rounded, but dogs with curly tails have tail vertebrae that resemble wedges, known as hemivertebrae. [Insert paragraph break here] As these wedge-shaped vertebrae stack on top of one another, a curl is formed.

Curly tails appear in various forms, ranging from tightly coiled corkscrews to loosely curled shapes that offer more flexibility. Dogs of all sizes, from small to large, can have curly tails.

Despite sharing a common trait, each curly-tailed breed brings its unique qualities and personalities, making generalizations difficult. Instead, let’s dive deeper into the individual breeds. (And don’t worry—curly tails can still wag, albeit differently!)

Here are 14 dogs with curly tails that are sure to wind their way into your heart.

01 of 14

Pug

Credit: Alf Jönsson / Getty Images

With their iconic wrinkled faces and compact bodies, pugs are small dogs originally bred to be companions to China's ruling families. They boast a tight, spiral-like tail that curls over their back, resembling a cinnamon roll. The tail may occasionally uncurl, indicating the dog might be tired, stressed, relaxed, unwell, or (as some pet owners believe) guilty of something. Elderly pugs can have looser tails as well. These dogs are known for their outgoing and goofy personalities, and they tend to get along well with a wide variety of humans, including kids, as well as other animals.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Charming, funny, loving, mischievous, laid-back
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat in fawn or black
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
02 of 14

Siberian Husky

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Hans Surfer / Moment / Getty Images

Siberian huskies, medium to large-sized dogs, were originally bred in Siberia for sled pulling and companionship. They are distinguished by their striking blue or multi-colored eyes Their tail can appear straight, curved, or kinked, often depending on their mood. When curled, their fluffy tail gracefully curves over their back. Siberian huskies generally do well with children and other dogs, but require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, making them best suited for active individuals or families.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 21 to 23.5 inches (male); 20 to 22 inches (female)
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds (male); 35 to 50 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Outgoing, mischievous, playful, vocal, independent
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in white, black, or a combination of white with red, black & tan, gray, brown, agouti, black, or sable
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
03 of 14

Pomeranian

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TatyanaTitova / Getty Images

These pint-sized bundles of fluff became popular in the 18th century among royal pet owners. A Pomeranian's heavily plumed tail curls upwards and rolls backward, resting on its back like a fan. This compact breed often forms strong bonds with their families, delighting those around them with their charming antics. A Pomeranian is an excellent choice for those seeking a quirky companion with moderate exercise needs and a lot of love to give.

Breed Overview

Group: Toy (AKC)
Height: 6 to 7 inches
Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Inquisitive, lively, bold, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in red, orange, white, cream, blue, sable, brindle, black, chocolate, and tri-colored
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
04 of 14

Akita

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Eudyptula / Getty Images

Akitas are large dogs originally bred in Japan for hunting and guarding. They possess a plush tail that typically curls over their back, with each dog's tail being unique. Akitas require consistent, positive-reinforcement training due to their strong-willed personalities and may not get along well with other animals. With their high energy, they also require long, daily walks.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 26 to 28 inches (male); 24 to 26 inches (female)
Weight: 100-130 pounds (male); 70-100 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, introverted, intelligent, protective, independent
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in fawn, red, white, brown brindle, with or without a black overlay, and all black.
Life Span: 10 to 14 years

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05 of 14

Finnish Spitz

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Johner Images / Getty Images

The Finnish Spitz, also known as the Finkie, is a rare, medium-sized dog originally used in Finland for hunting birds and small game. They have a fox-like appearance with a striking red coat, pointed ears, and a plumed tail that curls over their back. Finnish Spitz dogs are intelligent and independent, often exhibiting a strong prey drive. They're a good choice for active individuals or families, including those with children.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 17.5 to 20 inches (male); 15.5 to 18 inches (female)
Weight: 25 to 33 pounds (male); 20 to 28 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Good-natured, friendly, lively, affectionate
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in red, gold, or red gold
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
06 of 14

Basenji

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Maria Itina / Getty Images

Not particularly well-known, Basenjis are small dogs that were originally bred in Central Africa for hunting small game. This ancient breed shares many characteristics with wild dogs, but interestingly, they don’t bark—they produce a yodel-like sound instead. A Basenji’s distinctive features include a wrinkled forehead, erect ears, short, fine fur, and a tightly curled tail that loops back over the dog’s backside. They’re energetic and alert dogs that bond closely with their humans but may be less friendly toward other animals.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 17 inches (male); 16 inches (female)
Weight: 24 pounds (male); 22 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Independent, intelligent, poised, active
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Short, smooth coat in white with sable, black, black tan, brindle, red, black brindle, blue cream, mahogany tan, or cream
Life Span: 13 to 14 years
07 of 14

American Eskimo Dog

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Christmas w/a K / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0

Despite their name, American Eskimo dogs are small dogs that originated in Germany as companions and guard dogs. This breed comes in three varieties: toy, miniature, and standard. Distinctive features include a dense, bright white coat with a lion-like ruff around the chest and shoulders and a plumed tail that curves over the back. American Eskimo dogs are eager to please, but they can be a bit territorial. They’re well-suited for active individuals and families looking for a loyal playmate.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 9 to 12 inches (toy); 12 to 15 inches (miniature); 15 to 19 inches (standard)
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds (toy); 10 to 20 pounds (miniature); 25 to 35 pounds (standard)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, smart, social, affectionate, playful
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in white or white and biscuit
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
08 of 14

Shiba Inu

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Shutterstock

With their thick, red coat and pointed ears, Shiba Inus are small dogs that were originally bred in Japan for hunting small game. They are the smallest and oldest of the native Japanese breeds. A Shiba Inu’s tail curls upward toward the back to form a small curl. These dogs are intelligent and fiercely loyal to their families. They’re best suited for experienced pet parents who can provide consistent training, exercise, and socialization.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 14.5 to 16.5 inches (male); 13.5 to 15.5 inches (female)
Weight: 23 pounds (male); 17 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Active, attentive, affectionate, protective, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, double coat in cream, red, sesame, or black & tan
Life Span: 13 to 16 years

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09 of 14

Samoyed

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zhao hui / Getty Images

Samoyeds originated in Siberia where they were used by the Samoyedic people as sled dogs and reindeer herders. You can’t miss their fluffy, cloud-like tail that curls over the back. This breed tends to have a gentle and affectionate nature (they aren’t called “smiling Sammies” for nothing). Samoyeds are active, intelligent, social, and good with children, thriving in the company of their people.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 21 to 23.5 inches (male); 19 to 21 inches (female)
Weight: 45 to 65 pounds (male); 35 to 50 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Social, cheery, gentle, adaptable, affectionate, protective, playful
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in white, biscuit, cream, and white & biscuit
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
10 of 14

Chow Chow

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Matt277 / Getty Images

Chow Chows are medium-sized dogs that first came on the scene in China where they were used for hunting, guarding, and pulling carts. They’re powerful, compactly built dogs with dense fur, a lion-like mane, a distinctive blue-black tongue, and a thickly furred tail that curls over their back. They’re affectionate with their people but can sometimes be aggressive with other animals. They do best in calm homes with experienced pet parents who can provide consistent training and lots of grooming.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Aloof, loyal, intelligent, independent, protective
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Medium-length, smooth or rough double coat in cream, red, cinnamon, black, and blue
Life Span: 8 to 12 years
11 of 14

Alaskan Malamute

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LiuMeiLi/iStock/Getty Images

Immensely strong, Alaskan Malamutes originated in Alaska as sled dogs and hunting companions for the Inuit people. With a wolf-like appearance, defining characteristics of this breed include a very thick coat, pointed ears, a broad head, and a plume-like tail that curls over their back. They have a friendly and outgoing personality and love outdoor adventures, making them excellent for families or individuals looking for an active dog who loves to play and explore.

Breed Overview

Group: Working (AKC)
Height: 25 inches (male); 23 inches (female)
Weight: 85 pounds (male); 75 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, playful, independent, strong-willed
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in white with gray, black, red, seal, silver, sable, blue, or agouti, or all white
Life Span: 10 to 14 years
12 of 14

Keeshond

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Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

Small to medium-sized with a plumed and gracefully curled tail, the Keeshond breed was established in Holland in the 18^th century as watchdogs and companions. They’re known for their alertness, affectionate nature, and adaptability. They tend to get along with most humans (including kids) and animals, making them a seamless addition to the family.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 18 inches (male); 17 inches (female)
Weight: 35 to 45 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, lively, devoted, affectionate, protective
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in black with silver, gray, or gray cream
Life Span: 12 to 15 years

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13 of 14

Norwegian Elkhound

Credit:

Tiffany Kelly/Noble Soul Photography / Getty Images

Friendly, confident, and dependable, this medium-sized breed originally helped their human companions with hunting large game such as elk and bear. But, their friendly nature makes them excellent modern-day companions for a variety of people. Norwegian elkhounds have dense, silver-gray coats, sturdy, muscular builds, and tails curling tightly over their backs.

Breed Overview

Group: Hound (AKC)
Height: 20.5 inches (male); 19.5 inches (female)
Weight: 55 pounds (male); 48 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, confident, dependable, affectionate, playful, protective
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in black with gray black, silver gray, gray, or silver
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
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Norwegian Buhund

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Jon-Eric Melsæter / Flckr / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) License

Norwegian Buhunds are medium-sized dogs that were originally used by the Vikings to herd reindeer and other similar livestock. This breed is still used for their herding expertise today. They’re a cold-weather breed characterized by a dense coat, erect ears, and a high-set tail curled in a tight arc over their back. Norwegian Buhunds are known for their intelligence and strong work ethic, so they do best with experienced, active pet parents who can provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Breed Overview

Group: Herding (AKC)
Height: 17 to 18.5 inches (male); 16 to 17.5 inches (female)
Weight: 31 to 40 pounds (male); 26 to 35 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Confident, smart, perceptive, affectionate, devoted
Energy Level: Medium-high
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in wheaten or black
Life Span: 12 to 15 years

FAQ

Are curly-tailed dog breeds good for families with children?

Many curly-tailed breeds, such as the Samoyed and Siberian Husky, are known for their friendly and gentle dispositions with children. However, it's important to consider the individual dog's temperament and ensure they are socialized properly.
Do curly-tailed dogs require special grooming due to their coat and tail type?

Some breeds like the Chow Chow and Samoyed have dense fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain coat health.
What are common health issues in dogs with curly tails?

While having a curly tail isn't a health issue itself, some breeds may have other hereditary issues to be aware of, like hip dysplasia in Alaskan Malamutes.

14 Dog Breeds With Curly Tails

Pug

Breed Overview

Siberian Husky

Breed Overview

Pomeranian

Breed Overview

Akita

Breed Overview

Finnish Spitz

Breed Overview

Basenji

Breed Overview

American Eskimo Dog

Breed Overview

Shiba Inu

Breed Overview

Samoyed

Breed Overview

Chow Chow

Breed Overview

Alaskan Malamute

Breed Overview

Keeshond

Breed Overview

Norwegian Elkhound

Breed Overview

Norwegian Buhund

Breed Overview

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