We know that we adore a dog with a curly tail. But where do those curly tails come from? And why are there different kinds?
First off, did you know that a dog’s tail is made up of many small bones? Yep—it’s actually a flexible continuation of a dog’s spine. This contributes to a tail’s shape on the individual dog. For instance, pugs and some bulldogs have corkscrew-shaped tails because their vertebrae are either fused or wedge-shaped.
The sickle-shaped tail found on breeds like the Akita and Siberian husky is a less extreme curl with more flexibility. These dogs can still show their emotions through their tails. The sickle-tail is generally found on breeds that originated in cold climates. Sometimes, even now, when these pups settle down to sleep on a cold night, you’ll see them clamp their tail tightly to their body—warming up! Sometimes, they cover their nose for extra comfort.
11 Adorable Dog Breeds with Curly Tails
Here are some of our favorite cute, curly-tailed buddies.
1. Siberian Husky
These striking dogs have a bunch of other beautiful characteristics that set them apart, including multicolored eyes, facial masks, and thick, cozy fur. Combined with their incredible curled tail, intelligence, friendliness, and loyalty, these pack animals are popular for a reason. They do need a great deal of exercise, so they’re not for couch potatoes.
2. Pomeranian
Ideal companions, these little dogs sometimes resemble teddy bears. Their small size doesn’t make for a small personality, though. Give them plenty of attention and exercise—they’re smart little fuzzballs with strong opinions and a desire to be close to their humans.
3. Akita
This ancient dog breed has a truly impressive, full tail to match their thick double coat. These Japanese dogs always appear alert, and bond deeply with their humans (but are not always so excited about other animals).
4. Pug
Nothing beats a preposterously cute pug tail. Whether your pup is silver, apricot-fawn or black, these guys look the cutest when their coiled tail is wagging (as best as it can). Pugs are wonderful companions and adaptable to most climates and a variety of humans and animals. They are notoriously food-motivated!
5. Finnish Spitz
This rare breed sports an impressive, fluffy tail that curls up over their backs with elegance. Known to be incredibly loyal to their families, these dogs are excellent watchdogs but can be a bit vocal, so heads up if you’ve got super-sensitive neighbors.
6. Basenji
With one of the most magnificent curls around, this pup’s tail is their pride and joy. Well, along with their expressive faces, smooth running gait, and loyalty. Interestingly enough, this African breed doesn’t bark, but they do make funny yodeling noises, so they aren’t silent.
7. American Eskimo Dog
These super-trainable dogs just want to be loved and included in the family, so make sure you’re ready to devote time to them if you bring one home! With their dense, white coat, fluffy tail (that curls, of course) and sweet face, they won’t need to ask for your attention twice.
8. Shiba Inu
Another member of the curly tail club, the Shiba Inu is known to use their tail to help with their balance, optimize mobility, and of course, to make them look good! This Japanese breed is independent and can be aloof with strangers, and needs plenty of training to stay happy and well-behaved.
9. Samoyed
You might find your Samoyed sleeping with their tail over their nose when it’s cold outside. That habit, along with their thick, luscious coat, is a built-in warming mechanism for work in the world’s coldest climates. They hail from Siberia, in fact. Samoyeds are also known as “smiling sled dogs.” Strong and agile, they’re also sweet and friendly with their families.
10. Chow Chow
Chows are known to be tidy, powerful pups with beautiful lion-like manes, blue-black tongues, and funny facial expressions. Giving off a dignified vibe, these dogs have a history of guarding work in their native China and need plenty of good training and socialization to help curb overly-protective tendencies (particularly towards strangers).
11. Alaskan Malamute
These are large, powerful dogs—and with an origin as an Arctic sled dog, that isn’t too surprising! Though they seem built to work, malamutes also love cuddling with their family. Just make sure to give them firm, loving training from an early age, and you’ll have a playfu companion for life.