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Every dog breed each has their own personality, characteristics, and special looks. 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 curly tails are a popular favorite! While these 10 breeds are great in many ways, their curly tails certainly help with the cute factor.

Pug

Pug standing in profile in the park.
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Pugs are easily recognized by their cute 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

Basenji standing in the grass.
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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

Finnish Spitz standing outdoors in the forest.
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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 puppy standing outdoors.
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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 their owners often describe them as cat-like. Like the Basenji, Shiba Inu is an ancient breed, with a genetic history that predates most of our modern dogs.

Norwegian Buhund

Norwegian Buhund standing in a field.
Ruben Lopez/Shutterstock

The Norwegian Buhund is truly an all-purpose dog. The breed has worked as farm and herding dogs, watchdogs, and nanny dogs. Ancestors of today’s Buhund were buried alongside Vikings so that they could continue to care for their humans after death.

Akita

Akita standing in the forest in winter.
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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

Chow Chow standing outdoors in the grass.
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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

Keeshond with her favorite toy, a fluffy ball.
Daniela Duncan/Moment

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

Norwegian Elkhounds together outdoors.
©slowmotiongli - stock.adobe.com

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.

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute puppy standing outdoors.
©Kuzya

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.

Related article: How to Be Your Dogs Best Advocate
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