Every dog breed is unique. They each have their own personality characteristics and special looks — which is exactly why we love our purebred dogs! There are so many things that make them simply adorable, and one of those is their tails. Tails probably come in as many varieties as dogs do, and in this article we’re going to focus on some of our favorites — the curly tails! While these breeds are great in many ways, their curly tails certainly help with the cute factor.
Pug
Pugs are easily recognized by their squishy faces, curly tails, and boisterous personalities! These little dogs were bred to be companions to China’s ruling families and have continued to grow in popularity since. They are often described as “a lot of dog in a small package,” and they certainly are. This breed is one of the class clowns of the dog world!
Basenji
The Basenji is a hunting dog from Africa. This is an ancient breed that shares many characteristics with wild dogs that separate them from their more modern, domesticated cousins. Basenjis do not bark, but vocalize with yodels and howls. They are energetic and alert dogs that bond closely with their humans, but may be less friendly toward other family pets.
Finnish Spitz
Patient, playful and intelligent, the Finnish Spitz makes a great companion for the active family. They were originally bred to hunt all types of game, from squirrels and grouse to elk and bear. Like other Northern breeds, they have plush coats and curly tails.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu are small hunting dogs from Japan. They come from a spitz origin, which gives them their thick coats and curly tails. They are an independent breed and are often described as cat-like by their owners. Like the Basenji, Shiba Inu is considered an ancient breed, with a genetic history that predates most of our modern dogs.
Norwegian Buhund
The Norwegian Buhund is truly an all-purpose dog. The breed has been used as a farm and herding dog, a watch dog, and a nanny dog. Ancestors of today’s Buhund were buried alongside Vikings so that they could continue to care for their humans after death.
Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their beautiful white coats and curly tails. These northern dogs have been used as reindeer herders and sledding dogs for hundreds of years. Samoyeds are another ancient breed, like most of the spitz-type dogs, and have a long history working alongside humans in incredibly harsh weather. Samoyeds are energetic, social, and playful dogs, often known for their “Sammy smile.”
Pomeranian
These dogs may be tiny on the outside, but they’ve got huge personalities. Pomeranians are small, sturdy, and lively dogs. These tiny dogs were bred down from larger working dogs to be family companions. Although paintings from the 1700-1800s depict dogs weighing as much as 30 pounds, a single 12-pound Pomeranian shown by Queen Victoria is credited with popularizing the toy-sized dogs.
Akita
The Akita is a large Japanese breed widely known for its fierce loyalty to its family. You may recall the story of Hachiko, the Akita who waited for his owner to come home every day nine years after his owner’s death. Originally bred for hunting large game such as bear and elk, the Akita is also a dedicated guardian.
Chow Chow
Another ancient breed, the Chow Chow has been a part of Chinese culture for hundreds of years. These fluffy, curly-tailed dogs are unique and primitive. They were used as general-purpose dogs — hunting, herding, sledding, and guarding. They are independent and loyal, sometimes aggressive with other animals, but affectionate with their people.
Keeshond
The Keeshond is a German spitz known for its outgoing personality. Their thick, double coats and curly tails provide the classic northern appearance that showcases this breed’s heritage. Keeshonden are intelligent, playful, and eager to please, and they make excellent companions for people of all ages.
Norwegian Elkhound
This large northern breed has been used as an all-around hunting dog, but is large enough to track elk, bear, and wolves. Norwegian Elkhounds are loyal to their owners, often forming inseparable bonds. They are strong and athletic dogs that make great companions for active owners.
American Eskimo Dog
Despite its name, this breed originated as a companion dog in Germany. Used to guard property, American Eskimo Dogs are territorial and dedicated watch dogs. That said, they are very affectionate and playful and make an excellent companion for people of all ages.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is well known for its sledding and hauling work. They are large, powerful dogs that need a job to do and are often not recommended for the novice owner. That said, they are quiet, extremely social, and love spending time with their families.