- There are many different curly dog breeds with varied sizes, colors, shapes, and coat textures.
- Choosing a curly dog breed should consider its size and maintenance needs, especially regarding coat grooming.
- Curly-coated dogs range from small breeds under 10 pounds to giant breeds over 100 pounds.
Curly Dog Breeds Characteristics
A curly coat can give a dog a unique look, but it also comes with its own grooming needs. Curly-haired dogs have coats that can range from soft waves to tight, springy curls, depending on their breed and genetics. Some curly-coated dogs shed very little, while others may still lose hair and need regular brushing to keep their coat healthy. Without proper care, curls can easily become tangled or matted. For this reason, many curly dog breeds need regular brushing, occasional bathing, and routine coat trimming. Their grooming needs can also vary based on the thickness and length of their curls.
Learn all about the pups with this adorable feature.
1 - Basenji
Breed Overview
Weight: 20 To 24 Pounds
Height: Approximately 16 To 17 Inches
Group: Hound
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, Independent, Alert
Coat Length: Short
Coat Pattern: Solid / Brindle / Tricolor
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 13 To 14 Years
The Basenji is one of the most recognizable Dog Breeds With Curly Tails. Originally developed in Central Africa, this small hunting dog has a short, fine coat and a tail that curls tightly over its back. It has an athletic body, pointed ears, and an alert expression. Basenjis usually weigh around 20 to 24 pounds and stand roughly 16 to 17 inches tall. Their coat may be red, black, brindle, or tricolor, usually with white markings.
Basenjis are clever, curious, independent, and full of energy. They enjoy exploring and can become bored when they do not receive enough activity or mental stimulation. They are affectionate with their families but often have an independent streak that makes training different from working breeds that constantly seek direction. Their unusual vocal sounds, elegant movement, and tightly curled tail make them particularly memorable.
2 - Pug
Breed Overview
Weight: 14 To 18 Pounds
Height: Approximately 10 To 13 Inches
Group: Toy
Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Charming
Coat Length: Short
Coat Pattern: Solid with Dark Mask
Energy: Medium
Life Span: Approximately 13 To 15 Years
The Pug is a compact companion dog famous for its wrinkled face, large expressive eyes, and tightly curled tail. Most Pugs weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and have a short, smooth coat. Fawn and black are the most familiar colors, with fawn Pugs usually displaying a dark facial mask. Their tail is carried high over the hip, and some dogs have a particularly pronounced double curl.
They enjoy short walks and indoor play rather than demanding hours of intense exercise. Regular grooming is still needed because they shed and have facial folds that require attention. Among Dog Breeds With Curly Tails, the Pug stands out because of its unusual combination of a tiny body, short coat, and distinctive facial features.
3 - Shiba Inu
Breed Overview
Weight: 17 To 23 Pounds
Height: Approximately 13.5 To 16.5 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Alert, Confident, Independent
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Solid / Urajiro Markings
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 13 To 16 Years
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed recognized for its fox-like face, compact body, and thick tail carried over the back. Its tail can form a firm curl or curved shape, giving the breed its classic silhouette. Adult Shiba Inus generally weigh about 17 to 23 pounds and stand around 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall. Their double coats can be red, black and tan, sesame, or cream. The coat is relatively easy to manage with regular brushing, although seasonal shedding can be heavy.
Shiba Inus are confident, alert, intelligent, and independent. Early socialization and patient handling can help them become well-mannered companions. They enjoy walks, exploration, and games that keep their minds busy. Their curled tail, upright ears, and expressive face give them an instantly recognizable appearance and have helped make the Shiba Inu one of the best-known Japanese breeds worldwide.
4 - Akita
Breed Overview
Weight: 70 To 130 Pounds
Height: Approximately 24 To 28 Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Dignified, Loyal, Protective
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Pinto / Brindle / Solid
Energy: Medium To High
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 14 Years
The Akita is a large Japanese breed with a powerful build, dense double coat, and thick tail carried over the back. Its tail can form a curl or loop that rests against the body. Adult Akitas can weigh roughly 70 to 130 pounds, depending on sex and build, and usually stand around 24 to 28 inches tall. Their coats may be red, brindle, white, or other recognized combinations. The coat is relatively short to medium in length but has a dense undercoat that sheds seasonally.
Akitas are known for being loyal, dignified, protective, and independent. They often form strong bonds with their families while remaining reserved around unfamiliar people. They benefit from regular walks and controlled physical activity rather than chaotic exercise. The Akita’s broad head, strong frame, thick coat, and curled tail give it a powerful appearance that is difficult to confuse with smaller curled-tail breeds.
5 - Chow Chow
Breed Overview
Weight: 45 To 70 Pounds
Height: Approximately 17 To 20 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Independent, Loyal, Reserved
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid
Energy: Medium
Life Span: Approximately 8 To 12 Years
The Chow Chow is an ancient-looking breed with a sturdy body, dense coat, and tail that sits high and curls over its back. Adult Chow Chows generally weigh around 45 to 70 pounds and stand approximately 17 to 20 inches tall. They may have rough or smooth coats, with recognized colors including red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream. The rough-coated variety has a particularly full appearance around the head and neck, while the smooth variety has a shorter outer coat.
Chow Chows are usually independent, calm, loyal, and somewhat reserved. They often form a close relationship with their household but may not be overly affectionate with everyone they meet. Their exercise requirements are moderate, although daily walks remain important for maintaining fitness. Regular brushing is essential for the long-coated variety. Their dense fur, distinctive expression, compact ears, and curled tail make them one of the more unusual members of the Dog Breeds With Curly Tails category.
6 - Finnish Spitz
Breed Overview
Weight: 20 To 33 Pounds
Height: Approximately 15.5 To 20 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Lively, Vocal, Friendly
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Pattern: Solid / Shaded
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized Nordic breed with a pointed face, upright ears, reddish-golden coat, and tail carried over its back. The tail forms a noticeable curve and contributes to the breed’s fox-like appearance. Finnish Spitz dogs usually weigh 20 to 33 pounds and stand about 15.5 to 20 inches tall. Their medium-length double coat is generally golden-red or red-gold, with lighter areas sometimes visible on the underside.
This breed is lively, intelligent, alert, and naturally curious. Finnish Spitz dogs enjoy walks, outdoor activities, and games that allow them to use their senses. Their coat is manageable with regular brushing, especially during shedding periods. The combination of bright coloring, pointed features, and a curved tail gives this breed a distinctive Nordic character.
7 - Norwegian Buhund
Breed Overview
Weight: 26 To 40 Pounds
Height: Approximately 16 To 18.5 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Cheerful, Energetic, Intelligent
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Pattern: Solid / Black Mask
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 13 To 15 Years
The Norwegian Buhund is an energetic Scandinavian herding breed with a compact build and a curled tail. Adults typically weigh 26 to 40 pounds and stand 16 to 18.5 inches tall. The medium-length double coat, usually wheaten or black, protects them in cold, wet weather. Regular brushing removes loose hair.
Norwegian Buhunds are cheerful, intelligent, alert, and affectionate with their families. Their working background means they usually enjoy having something to do rather than spending the entire day inactive. Walks, obedience practice, agility, and interactive games can all help keep them satisfied. They learn quickly but may become restless without stimulation. Their pointed ears, athletic body, thick coat, and curled tail give the Norwegian Buhund the unmistakable look of a traditional Scandinavian working dog.
8 - Keeshond
Breed Overview
Weight: 35 To 45 Pounds
Height: Approximately 17 To 18 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, Outgoing, Affectionate
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Wolf-Gray Shading
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Keeshond is a medium-sized companion breed with a thick double coat and a heavily plumed tail carried over the back. The tail curves naturally and blends with the dog’s fluffy outline. Keeshonds generally weigh 35 to 45 pounds and stand about 17 to 18 inches tall. Their coat has a characteristic mix of gray, black, and cream, often creating a shaded appearance around the face and body. Regular brushing is important because of the thick fur.
Keeshonds are friendly, affectionate, intelligent, and outgoing. They enjoy being involved in whatever their family is doing and can become attached to their people. Their energy level is high, so daily walks and play sessions are useful. They enjoy learning new things and do well with positive training. The thick neck ruff, expressive facial markings, and curled plume-like tail give the Keeshond an elegant appearance among dogs with curled tails.
9 - Norwegian Elkhound
Breed Overview
Weight: 48 To 55 Pounds
Height: Approximately 19.5 To 20.5 Inches
Group: Hound
Personality/Temperament: Bold, Loyal, Energetic
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Pattern: Gray/Black Shading
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust Scandinavian hunting breed, recognized by its gray coat, pointed ears, and tightly curled tail. It typically weighs 48 to 55 pounds and stands 19.5 to 20.5 inches tall. Its medium-length double coat is primarily gray with darker shading on the ears, muzzle, and back. Designed for function, the coat protects the dog in cold climates.
Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, loyal, energetic, and alert. With a strong working background, they enjoy long walks, hiking, and activities that provide mental stimulation. Their independence can make training challenging, so consistency and patience are important. They are attentive watchdogs and display the classic features of a northern working dog: a sturdy build, silver-gray coat, upright ears, and a curled tail.
10 - Pomeranian
Breed Overview
Weight: 3 To 7 Pounds
Height: Approximately 6 To 7 Inches
Group: Toy
Personality/Temperament: Lively, Confident, Curious
Coat Length: Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Sable / Parti
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 16 Years
The Pomeranian is a compact toy breed renowned for its vibrant character and heavily plumed, arching tail. These small companions typically weigh roughly 3 to 7 pounds and reach a height of approximately 6 to 7 inches. Their long, dense double coat features a wide array of shades, such as orange, black, cream, white, sable, or mixed patterns. Resting flat over the back toward the head, the lush tail demands frequent grooming to prevent mats and maintain a polished look.
Pomeranians are spirited, self-assured, inquisitive, and deeply devoted. Although exceptionally portable, they display an adventurous temperament that mimics that of larger breeds. Moderate indoor play, brief daily walks, and interactive training sessions offer ample physical exercise and mental engagement. They thrive on companionship, preferring to remain near their human family. Featuring a delicate build, voluminous fur, erect ears, and a distinctive fan-like tail, the Pomeranian stands out as a memorable favorite among Dog Breeds With Curly Tails.
11 - Alaskan Malamute
Breed Overview
Weight: 75 To 100 Pounds
Height: Approximately 23 To 25 Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, Strong, Independent
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Gray/White, Black/White, Red/White
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 14 Years
Recognized for its powerful frame, dense coat, and plush tail resting over its back, the Alaskan Malamute is a substantial Arctic working breed. Unlike smaller breeds with tightly wound tails, its tail typically forms a gentle, sweeping arch. Fully grown Malamutes generally reach a height of 23 to 25 inches and weigh between 75 and 100 pounds. To endure freezing temperatures, they possess a thick undercoat, with outer coloration ranging across gray, black, red, sable, and white combinations.
Combining physical strength with an affectionate, spirited, and self-reliant nature, Malamutes require plenty of exercise due to their history as endurance draft animals. They thrive on outdoor activities like hiking and long walks, while their sharp minds demand routine mental engagement. Regular grooming is essential, as their heavy double coat sheds heavily during seasonal transitions. With their broad head, athletic build, wild-looking coat patterns, and expressive curved tail, Alaskan Malamutes command an impressive presence.
12 - Samoyed
Breed Overview
Weight: 35 To 65 Pounds
Height: Approximately 19 To 23.5 Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, Gentle, Social
Coat Length: Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Biscuit Markings
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
Famous for its gleaming white coat, welcoming face, and plume-like tail curled over its back, the Samoyed is a striking Arctic breed. Typically weighing around 35 to 65 pounds, mature Samoyeds stand roughly 19 to 23.5 inches in height. Their voluminous double coat presents in pure white, cream, or biscuit tones. Maintaining this dense coat requires frequent grooming, especially during heavy seasonal shedding.
Samoyeds display an outgoing, affectionate, smart, and highly active temperament. They deeply love human companionship and often grow anxious if left alone for extended periods. Regular walks, interactive play, and outdoor adventures keep their high energy satisfied. Known to preserve a youthful, fun-loving nature into maturity, they feature dark eyes, an iconic upturned mouth, brilliant fur, and an arched tail that make them an unforgettable highlight among Dog Breeds With Curly Tails.
13 - American Eskimo Dog
Breed Overview
Weight: 6 To 35 Pounds
Height: Approximately 9 To 19 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, Playful, Alert
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid
Energy: Medium
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 12 Years
The American Eskimo Dog is a Spitz-type companion breed available in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes. Its fluffy white tail is carried over the back and can form a clear curve. The breed has a thick double coat that is usually white or white with biscuit-colored shading. Depending on size, adults can weigh from about 6 to 35 pounds. Regular brushing helps control loose hair and keeps the coat in good condition.
American Eskimo Dogs are clever, playful, alert, and energetic. They often enjoy learning tricks and can be excellent participants in obedience or agility activities. Because they are intelligent, they need more than simple physical exercise; games and training can help prevent boredom. They are usually affectionate with their families and attentive to their surroundings. Their bright white coat, pointed ears, dark eyes, and curled plume tail give them a classic Spitz appearance.
14 - Tibetan Mastiff
Breed Overview
Weight: 70 To 150+ Pounds
Height: Approximately 24 To 26+ Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Protective, Independent, Reserved
Coat Length: Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Tan Points
Energy: Medium
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 12 Years
The Tibetan Mastiff is a massive guardian breed with a powerful frame, heavy coat, and large plume-like tail curled over its back. Adults can weigh roughly 70 to 150 pounds or more, while males may stand at least 26 inches tall. Their coats can be black, brown, blue-gray, gold, or marked with tan. The long, dense coat gives them an impressive appearance and requires regular grooming.
Tibetan Mastiffs are generally protective, independent, calm, and reserved. Their traditional role as guardians means they naturally pay close attention to unfamiliar people and situations. They are not usually a breed for owners looking for a highly social dog that welcomes everyone. Although they are large, their exercise needs are not necessarily extreme, but they need enough space and regular movement. Their enormous size and curled tail make them one of the most impressive breeds on this list.
15 - Siberian Husky
Breed Overview
Weight: 35 To 60 Pounds
Height: Approximately 20 To 23.5 Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, Energetic, Independent and Outgoing
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Pattern: Various Masks / Markings
Energy: Very High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working breed with an athletic body, thick double coat, and bushy tail that curves upward when the dog is alert. Its tail does not always form a tight curl, but its characteristic curved carriage gives it a place among dogs often associated with curled tails. Adult Huskies generally weigh 35 to 60 pounds and stand around 20 to 23.5 inches tall. Their coats may be black, gray, red, sable, white, or combinations of these colors.
Huskies are energetic, friendly, independent, and often mischievous. They were bred for endurance and can require substantial daily exercise. Running, hiking, long walks, and interactive games can suit their active nature. They are also known for being clever escape artists, so secure surroundings are important. Their blue, brown, amber, or mixed-colored eyes, striking facial markings, athletic body, and sweeping tail make the Siberian Husky instantly recognizable
16 - Swedish Vallhund
Breed Overview
Weight: 20 To 35 Pounds
Height: Approximately 11.5 To 13.5 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Energetic, Alert, Friendly
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Sable / Harness Markings
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Swedish Vallhund is a compact Scandinavian herding dog with short legs, an athletic body, and a tail that may be naturally short or carried in a curved position. Adult dogs usually weigh around 20 to 35 pounds and stand approximately 11.5 to 13.5 inches tall. Their coat is relatively short to medium in length and can appear in gray, red, or sable shades, often with lighter markings.
Swedish Vallhunds are intelligent, energetic, alert, and friendly. Their history as farm dogs means they enjoy being active and involved with their owners. They can excel at activities such as obedience, agility, herding exercises, and interactive games. Daily physical activity is important because they are not naturally lazy dogs. Their unusual body proportions, pointed ears, expressive face, and varied tail type make the Swedish Vallhund an interesting breed to include when discussing curled or naturally unusual tails.
17 - Swedish Lapphund
Breed Overview
Weight: 30 To 45 Pounds
Height: Approximately 16 To 20 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, Energetic
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Brownish Markings
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
The Swedish Lapphund is a medium-sized Nordic breed with a thick coat and a long, fluffy tail that is typically carried over the back. The tail can create a noticeable curve, especially when the dog is alert. Adults generally weigh around 30–45 pounds and stand approximately 16–20 inches tall. The coat is usually black, although brownish shading can occur, and its length ranges from medium to long.
Swedish Lapphunds are friendly, intelligent, energetic, and attentive. Their working background gave them plenty of stamina, so they enjoy regular walks and outdoor activities. They can also appreciate training sessions that keep their minds occupied. Their dense coat needs consistent brushing, especially when seasonal shedding begins. A fluffy mane, expressive eyes, upright ears, and curved tail give this breed the classic northern appearance associated with many Dog Breeds With Curly Tails.
18 - Finnish Lapphund
Breed Overview
Weight: 33 To 53 Pounds
Height: Approximately 16 To 21 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Gentle, Intelligent, Friendly
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Sable / Bi-Color
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized Nordic breed with a thick, weather-resistant coat and a long tail that is carried over the back. Its tail is heavily feathered and can form a graceful curl or curve. Adults generally weigh around 33–53 pounds and stand approximately 16–21 inches tall. Their coats can be black, brown, cream, red, or wolf-sable, often with attractive markings.
Finnish Lapphunds are gentle, intelligent, friendly, and energetic. They usually enjoy being part of family life and can be particularly responsive to owners who provide regular interaction. Their herding background gives them an interest in movement and activity, making walks, training, and outdoor games good choices. Their coat needs regular brushing to manage loose hair and prevent tangles. The combination of a soft expression, fluffy coat, and curled plume tail gives the Finnish Lapphund a warm and approachable appearance.
19 - Eurasier
Breed Overview
Weight: 40 To 70 Pounds
Height: Approximately 19 To 24 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Calm, Loyal, Reserved
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Shaded
Energy: Medium
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 16 Years
The Eurasier is a medium-sized companion breed developed in Germany from several Spitz-type dogs. It has a thick coat and a tail that is normally carried curled over the back. Adults commonly weigh around 40–70 pounds and stand approximately 19–24 inches tall. Their medium-to-long coat comes in several colors and shades, although pure white and some specific patterns are excluded by breed standards.
Eurasiers are generally calm, loyal, intelligent, and reserved around unfamiliar people. They often become closely attached to their families without constantly demanding attention. Their exercise needs are moderate, making daily walks and regular play suitable for many individuals. Mental stimulation is also useful because they are intelligent dogs. Their balanced body, triangular ears, dense coat, and curled tail give the Eurasier a polished Spitz-like appearance without the extremely high energy level found in some working breeds.
20 - Norwegian Lundehund
Breed Overview
Weight: 20 To 30 Pounds
Height: Approximately 12 To 15 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Alert, Energetic, Curious
Coat Length: Short
Coat Pattern: Pied/Sable / Black Markings
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
The Norwegian Lundehund is a small and unusual breed originally developed for hunting puffins along Norway’s rugged coastline. Its tail is carried in a curved or curled position over the back. Adults generally weigh around 20–30 pounds and stand about 12–15 inches tall. Their short double coat can include reddish-brown, gray, black, and white markings, creating a natural outdoorsy appearance.
Lundehunds are curious, alert, energetic, and surprisingly agile. They have several unusual physical traits that allow them to move through narrow and difficult terrain. Their intelligence and active nature mean they benefit from regular exercise and activities that give them something interesting to investigate. They can be independent but often form close bonds with their families. Their unusual anatomy, compact size, and curved tail make the Norwegian Lundehund one of the most distinctive breeds in this article.
21 - Icelandic Sheepdog
Breed Overview
Weight: 20 To 30 Pounds
Height: Approximately 16 To 18 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, Playful, Energetic
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: White Markings / Sable
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 14 Years
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Iceland’s native dog breed and has a classic Nordic appearance, including upright ears, a thick coat, and a bushy tail carried over the back. Its tail can curl noticeably when the dog is standing or alert. Adults generally weigh around 20–30 pounds and stand approximately 16–18 inches tall. Coat colors can include red, tan, gray, and black, usually combined with white markings.
These dogs are friendly, playful, alert, and energetic. Developed as farm and herding dogs, they generally enjoy staying active with their owners. Daily walks, outdoor games, and training sessions can help satisfy both their physical and mental needs. Their coat can be short or longer and benefits from regular brushing. The pointed ears, fox-like face, bushy tail, and cheerful personality give the Icelandic Sheepdog a distinctive character.
22 - Karelian Bear Dog
Breed Overview
Weight: 44 To 50 Pounds
Height: Approximately 19 To 24 Inches
Group: Working
Personality/Temperament: Bold, Independent, Courageous
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Black & White
Energy: Very High
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 13 Years
The Karelian Bear Dog is a strong Finnish working breed traditionally used for hunting large game. It has a powerful body, erect ears, and a tail that curls over the back. Adults typically weigh 44–50 pounds and stand about 19–24 inches tall. Their coat is typically black with clearly defined white markings. The dense coat is relatively short to medium in length and offers useful protection in cold conditions.
Karelian Bear Dogs are bold, energetic, independent, and highly alert. Their hunting background gives them strong instincts, so they generally need experienced handling and plenty of physical activity. They are not usually suited to a completely inactive household. Training and socialization are especially important because of their confident nature. Their black-and-white coat, powerful build, pointed ears, and curled tail give the breed a striking appearance that reflects its working heritage.
23 - Canaan Dog
Breed Overview
Weight: 35 To 55 Pounds
Height: Approximately 19 To 24 Inches
Group: Herding
Personality/Temperament: Alert, Intelligent, Cautious
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Patches / Sable / Solid
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Canaan Dog is an ancient Middle Eastern breed with an athletic body, upright ears, and a tail that can curl over the back when alert. Adults generally weigh around 35–55 pounds and stand approximately 19–24 inches tall. Their short-to-medium coat can be cream, red, brown, black, or a combination of these colors, often with attractive patches or markings.
Canaan Dogs are intelligent, alert, independent, and naturally cautious. Their history as guard and herding dogs has given them strong awareness of their surroundings. They tend to benefit from early socialization and consistent training rather than harsh methods. Regular walks and mental challenges can keep them content. Their practical coat is relatively easy to maintain, while their curled tail and upright ears add to their alert, fox-like appearance.
24 - German Spitz
Breed Overview
Weight: 18 To 33 Pounds
Height: Approximately 12 To 15.5 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Alert, Lively, Devoted
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid / Sable / Parti
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 13 To 15 Years
The German Spitz refers to a family of Spitz varieties that differ in size but share many recognizable features. One of the most obvious is the bushy tail carried curled over the back. Depending on the variety, these dogs can range from small to medium-sized. Their thick coats may be white, black, brown, orange, or gray-shaded, with a fluffy outer layer that gives them a rounded appearance.
German Spitz dogs are generally lively, intelligent, alert, and devoted to their owners. They can be vocal and attentive, making them naturally watchful around the home. Their energy level is usually fairly high, so regular walks and play are useful. The dense coat needs routine brushing to control shedding and maintain its texture. Their pointed ears, fluffy coat, compact body, and curled tail create the traditional Spitz look seen across several northern dog breeds.
25 - Volpino Italiano
Breed Overview
Weight: 9 To 14 Pounds
Height: Approximately 9.5 To 12 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Lively, Affectionate, Alert
Coat Length: Long
Coat Pattern: Solid
Energy: Medium To High
Life Span: Approximately 14 To 16 Years
The Volpino Italiano is a small Italian Spitz breed with a fluffy coat, pointed ears, and a plumed tail carried over the back. Its tail can form a prominent curve, giving the dog a rounded silhouette. Adults generally weigh around 9–14 pounds and stand approximately 9.5–12 inches tall. The coat is long and fluffy, with white being the best-known color, while red and other recognized shades may also occur.
Volpino Italianos are lively, affectionate, alert, and intelligent. Despite their small size, they can be quite active and enjoy play, short walks, and interaction with their owners. Their fluffy coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and remove loose hair. They often become very attached to their families and can be attentive little watchdogs. Their small size, fox-like face, and curled plume tail make them an appealing option for people who prefer smaller curled-tail breeds.
26 - Japanese Spitz
Breed Overview
Weight: 11 To 20 Pounds
Height: Approximately 12 To 15 Inches
Group: Non-Sporting
Personality/Temperament: Cheerful, Intelligent, playful
Coat Length: Medium To Long
Coat Pattern: Solid
Energy: Medium To High
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 16 Years
The Japanese Spitz is a small-to-medium companion breed with a brilliant white coat, pointed ears, dark eyes, and a fluffy tail carried over the back. The tail creates a clear curve and contributes to the breed’s characteristic appearance. Adults commonly weigh around 11–20 pounds and stand roughly 12–15 inches tall. Their medium-to-long double coat is generally pure white and needs regular brushing.
Japanese Spitz dogs are cheerful, intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They tend to enjoy family life and can adapt to different homes when their daily exercise and companionship needs are met. Short walks, games, and basic training can provide suitable activity. Their coat can look high-maintenance, but routine brushing is usually enough for everyday care. The bright white fur and curled plume tail make this breed particularly easy to recognize among Dog Breeds With Curly Tails.
27 - Hokkaido
Breed Overview
Weight: 44 To 66 Pounds
Height: Approximately 18 To 20 Inches
Group: Working/Spitz Type
Personality/Temperament: Brave, Loyal, Alert
Coat Length: Medium
Coat Pattern: Solid / Sesame / Brindle
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Hokkaido is a Japanese breed with a strong working background and the typical features of a northern Spitz-type dog. Its thick double coat and tail carried in a curled or curved position over the back give it a distinctive outline. Adults commonly weigh around 44–66 pounds and stand approximately 18–20 inches tall. Coat colors may include red, white, black, tan, sesame, and brindle.
Hokkaido dogs are brave, loyal, alert, and energetic. They were developed for hunting and outdoor work, so they generally enjoy physical activity and mental challenges. Regular exercise and consistent training are important for helping them positively use their natural energy. Their dense coat benefits from regular brushing, particularly during shedding seasons. Upright ears, an athletic body, and a curled tail complete the breed’s classic Japanese appearance.
28 - Shikoku
Breed Overview
Weight: 35 To 55 Pounds
Height: Approximately 17 To 22 Inches
Group: Working/Spitz Type
Personality/Temperament: Energetic, Loyal, Alert
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Sesame
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 10 To 12 Years
The Shikoku is a medium-sized Japanese hunting breed known for its athletic body, pointed ears, thick coat, and curled or curved tail. Adults generally weigh around 35–55 pounds and stand approximately 17–22 inches tall. The breed is strongly associated with sesame coloring, including red sesame and black sesame, although individual shades can vary.
Shikoku dogs are energetic, intelligent, loyal, and naturally alert. Their hunting history means they can have a strong desire to explore and may require more activity than a typical companion dog. Long walks, hiking, training, and mentally engaging games can suit their temperament. Early socialization is useful because they can be independent and reserved in unfamiliar situations. Their compact athletic build, rich coat, pointed ears, and curled tail give the Shikoku a distinctive appearance among Japanese breeds.
29. Kai Ken
Breed Overview
Weight: 25 To 45 Pounds
Height: Approximately 17 To 22 Inches
Group: Working/Spitz Type
Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, Loyal, Agile
Coat Length: Short To Medium
Coat Pattern: Brindle
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 12 To 15 Years
The Kai Ken is a Japanese hunting breed best known for its unusual brindle coat and athletic build. Its tail is carried over the back and can form a curved or curled shape. Adult Kai Kens generally weigh around 25–45 pounds and stand approximately 17–22 inches tall. Their short-to-medium double coat appears in black brindle, red brindle, or other brindle shades, giving each dog a distinctive striped appearance.
Kai Kens are intelligent, loyal, alert, agile, and energetic. Their history as hunting dogs means they enjoy outdoor activities and can be highly engaged when given a meaningful task. Regular exercise and patient training are important, particularly because they can be independent thinkers. Their brindle coat is perhaps their most recognizable feature, but their pointed ears, athletic body, and curled tail also contribute to their unique look.
30 - Kishu Ken
Breed Overview
Weight: 30 To 60 Pounds
Height: Approximately 17 To 22 Inches
Group: Working/Spitz Type
Personality/Temperament: Calm, Loyal, Alert
Coat Length: Short
Coat Pattern: Solid
Energy: High
Life Span: Approximately 11 To 13 Years
The Kishu Ken is a medium-sized Japanese breed traditionally developed for hunting. It has a compact athletic body, pointed ears, dense coat, and a tail carried over the back in a curved or curled position. Adults generally weigh around 30–60 pounds and stand approximately 17–22 inches tall. White is the most familiar coat color, while red and sesame varieties also occur.
Kishu Kens are loyal, intelligent, alert, and energetic, although many are reserved around unfamiliar people. Their hunting background means they often have strong instincts and benefit from regular physical activity. Consistent training and early socialization can help them become well-adjusted companions. Their coat is relatively straightforward to maintain compared with long-haired breeds. The combination of a clean, athletic body, upright ears, simple coat colors, and curled tail gives the Kishu Ken a distinctive Japanese appearance.
