25 Dogs with Curly Tails: The Complete List (2024)

Do you always fall for dogs with curly tails, and do you find them adorable? You’re not alone! Curly-tailed dogs are favored as they have a unique appearance and dynamic temperaments. Still, I am glad to present you with a detailed ultimate breed list for 2024: the 25 cutest dog breeds with cute curly tails. If you are still thinking about getting a dog or love dogs so much, below is the list. You will find out a few things that make each breed the way it is, including, of course, those lovely tails. Swim right in to find the right cute and curly-tailed dog that may be able to join your family.

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  Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu breed belongs to Japan, has one of the most ancient roots, and is among one of the smallest indigenous breeds. Originating from Japan, these dogs with curly tails are lively, characterized by a fox-like face, and have a slender build. Despite their active nature, they are friendly and cuddly.

Some of the unique features include their messy curly tails, which are characteristic of animals bred for covering and warmth. This curl assists in supporting balance and contributes to their stylish look, making them a delight to enthusiasts of dogs.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 13.5 to 16.5 inches
• Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Akita

The Akita, which has its roots in Japan, has hunting and guarding backgrounds. Friendly and brave, Akita is big and muscular and has a thick, two-layered coat on its body. One of the biggest dog breeds, Akita, is a large dog with a muscular build and a double layer of fur on the body.

Due to purposeful breeding, they have developed cute curly tails that help in balance due to their muscular build. This breed has its tail curled up on its back, contributing to its stately and muscular appearance – making it a respectful and loving pet.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 24 to 26 inches (females), 26 to 28 inches (males)
• Weight: for males – 100 to 130 pounds, for females – 70 to 100 pounds 
• Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

• Alaskan Malamute

This breed of sled dog is the Alaskan Malamute, and it illustrates one of the oldest techniques in dog genetic engineering; the Mahlemuts bred these dogs to pull sleds. Nevertheless, these are man’s most preferred pet dogs for strength, loyalty, and obedience, with thick, coarse, waterproof coats and muscular bodies.

It has a long, curly hair-like tail. Most of the time, it twines the tail over its back, and whenever it sleeps, it puts the tail around its neck. This feature helps them survive in cold conditions within their natural habitat, the Arctic region.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 23 to 25 inches 
• Weight: For males – 75 to 85 pounds, For females – 65 to 75 pounds
• Lifespan: 10 to 14 years 

• Samoyed

The Samoyeds believe that the breed originated from Siberia, and historically, the breed’s purpose was only a sled dog and a companion to the Samoyede people. It is nice and closely related to their masters, and it is well-known for its soft white coat, which some people would like to get.

Currently, the Samoyed innkeeper has curly tails, and they claim that they sometimes wrap their tails around their heads as a blanket to warm themselves in the cold Arctic weather. Learn more about these beautiful dogs with curly tails that are likely to have an attractively curled tail.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 19 to 23.5 inches 
• Weight: 50 to 65 pounds 
• Lifespan: 12 to 14 years

• Chow Chow

Chow Chows boast a rich history as ancient Chinese guardians and hunting companions. These distinctive dogs are known for their lion-like mane and blue-black tongues. Their curly tails, curled tightly over their backs, serve as a trademark feature.

This unique tail helps them to protect against cold weather in their native northern China. Chow Chows are renowned for their aloof demeanor and loyalty, making them cherished companions for those who appreciate their regal presence. Key characteristics include a height range of 

Key characteristics:

• Height: 17 to 20 inches (43 to 50 cm)
• Weight: 45 to 70 pounds (23 to 30 kg)
• Lifespan: 9 to 15 years

• German Spitz

The German Spitz, originally from Germany, has a history of being considered a family dog and also a watchdog. These medium-sized dogs with curly tails have feathered coats similar to foxes, and they are intelligent and devoted animals.

Features that make them unique are cute curly tails, which are an indicator of their character, and playful and communicative. As a faithful companion or as a protector, the spirited and adorable German Spitz, with its curly tail, offers a delight for every animal lover.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 11 to 15 inches
• Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• American Eskimo Dog

With a distinct look and active, friendly demeanor, the American Eskimo Dog’s past originates from Europe. This breed’s curly tail is not only expressive but also has a typical utility known for its thick, double-layer coat and lively personality.

Some of the reasons why curled tails are present are to cover other delicate parts from harsh weather conditions or just for the look of the breed.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 9 to 12 inches 
• Weight: 6 to 35 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Keeshond

The Keeshond, with lineage in the Netherlands, is popular as a loyal companion and small watchdog. Keeshonds have two thick silky layers of fur and large tufts of hair above their eyes, known as ‘spectacles,’ and are friendly dogs. Another curiosity about their external appearance is that they have a curly tail as a means of decorative tossing and stability in movements.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 17 to 18 inches
• Weight: 35 to 45 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Pug

Pugs are among the favorite toy breeds in the entire world. Pug originated in China over 2000 years ago and was a delicacy to emperors. The foundation of today’s Chinese industry dates back to the Han Dynasty of China.

Like all other pugs, they have close-trailing tails, which is a natural genetic characteristic of the dog. It is this that makes them cute and different from other related breeds of dogs with curly tails.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 10 to 13 inches 
• Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Pomeranian

Pomeranian dogs are descended from dogs in today’s Poland and Germany, known as Pomerania, and were particular favorites of the monarchy. These small creatures undoubtedly possess character and are unafraid to let everyone know. Pomeranians have a unique double layer of hair and a bushy tail held over their back, giving them a regal appearance.

Their curly tails are unique instinctive body language that evolved to be the signal of alarm in their forefathers, and their main use was for signaling other dogs. Pomeranians of the present time continue to perform in this tradition to the best of their ability, with the barking and the tail wagging.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 6 to 7 inches
• Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

• Basenji

This cute breed is more popularly recognized as the “barkless dog” and comes from Central Africa. This breed is as old as the other, and it has unique characteristics of slender fur, slanting eyes, and, not to mention, a curly tail.

In some of their species, the tail is useful, used to help when balancing during hunting within forests. Basenjis originated from Africa over thousands of years before they became man’s best friends because of their intelligence, independence, and affection.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 15 to 16 inches (female), 16 to 17 inches (male)
• Weight: 22 to 24 pounds (male), 20 to 22 pounds (female)
• Lifespan: 12 to 14 years

• Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz is a breed whose history traces back to Finland, where this breed was especially known as a hunting dog. Having the physical features of foxes with erect and pointed ears, they also possess extreme grace and smartness.

Their curly tail, which stands upright, indicates playfulness or alertness during hunt activities. Learn about the fascination with Finnish Spitz as we go to their historical background, distinctive features, and the rather intriguing reason for their tails being curly.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 15.5 to 20 inches
• Weight: 20 to 33 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a well-developed breed with historical roots. It has special features and, as you know, a curled-up tail. The breed of dogs has its roots in Norway, although they were valued as pets by the Vikings in the past. Some of the distinguishing features are a muscular body, gray, dense fur, and excellent hunting abilities.

But why curly tails? According to cultural historians, these tails provided warmth against severe climate conditions in the Nordic regions and helped balance during hunting activities.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 19.5 to 20.5 inches (male), 18 to 19.5 inches (female)
• Weight: 50 to 60 pounds (male), 40 to 55 pounds (female)
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Bichon Frise 

Even though these little dogs with curly tails belong to the group of cardies, they have friendly characters, and their coat is curly; that is why the breed has rather an interesting history. These cute little dogs were initially developed in the Mediterranean and favored by sailors and nobles. They always look happy.

Moreover, their fur is not the kind of fur that causes skin rashes; hence, they can be great pets. Some of the features associated with Bichon Frises are curly tails by design, and this is because breeders realize that cute-looking dogs will be popular among canine lovers. So, if you opened your house for a cheerful and active dog, then it’s the Bichon Frise.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 9 to 12 inches
• Weight: 10 to 18 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Canaan dog

One of the oldest dog breeds, the Canaan, originated from the ancient Canaanites. Canaan dogs are one of the most loyal breeds; common attributes suggest a strong stature and a thick pelt suitable for shielding against harsh climatic conditions.

The Canaan Dog also has a curly tail to remind them of their desert living roots and is used for communicative and balance purposes in uneven terrains. 

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 20 to 24 inches
• Weight: 35 to 55 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Schipperke 

It has a unique look, and it might come as a shock that it has origins rooted in being a Belgian canal dog. Intelligent and quick, with a thick, double coat usually registered as waterproof and a rather alert expression. Its natural curly tail had specific functions; it was used as a balance and added versatility to slender boats. 

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 10 to 13 inches
• Weight: 7 to 20 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 16 years.

• Coton de Tulear

This dog breed is friendly, small in size, comes from Madagascar, and has soft ‘cotton-like’ fur. Not only do they have cute curly tails, but they fool around and have lots of fun, as they do all the time. Earlier, from the aspects of their personality that were so favorable, they greatly esteemed the Malagasy royalty and seamen.

Coton de Tulear is a small, passionate, and friendly dog that acquires friends with everyone they come across; friendly dogs are perfect for people who love meeting and being around friendly dogs.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 8 to 11 inches 
• Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
• Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

• Shetland Sheepdog

They are medium-small dogs with curly tails and admirable herding skills; the Shetland Sheepdog is also known as Sheltie and originated from the Shetland Islands. These are some of the smartest breeds of dogs; therefore, the majority of them are friendly companions and competitors in different types of trials.

Their curled tail is in the process of communication and support while guiding the movement of the animals that they are fencing.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 13 to 16 inches
• Weight: 14 to 27 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Miniature American Shepard

The miniature American Shepherd hails from the United States, and it is well-liked. Moreover, it has a really interesting history. These types of dogs are pets because of their intelligence. They can be found performing in many dog-related competitions and being guard dogs.

Another interesting peculiarity of them is the curly tail which is presumed to have evolved due to balance and other useful activities such as herding.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 14 to 18 inches
• Weight: 20 to 40 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Icelandic Sheepdog

Another breed is the Icelandic sheepdog, which is cheerful, intelligent, and loyal, and it has strong links to the period of settlement in Iceland. These dogs had thick double coats and curly tails and needed physical activities like herding and protecting the farmers’ fields.

Scientists who know a lot about the origin of the different features of mice think that the curled tail is perfect for Iceland because it conserves heat.

Key Characteristics:

1. Height: 16 to 18 inches for males, 16 to 18 inches for females
2. Weight: 25 to 30 pounds for males, 20 to 25 pounds for females
3. Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Affenpinscher

Formerly known to have been developed in Germany, these small dogs with curly tails were best for catching rats and acting as guard dogs. Affenpinschers, with their worn coats and monkey-like faces, are lively and physically clingy.

It’s believed that their specific curly tails must have assisted them when they were cornering small mammals. Being small dogs with fun and distinctive personalities, Affenpinschers are perfect as pets in most homes.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 9 to 11.5 inches
• Weight: 6 to 13 pounds (3 to 6 kg)
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Brussels Griffon

One of the famous breeds that came in as pets from ancient European nobility is this canine, which originated in Brussels, Belgium. Brussels Griffons have a special identity known for their face and wiry coat; they make excellent pets due to being loyal and playful dogs.

This cute feature is their curly tails, and it is one of the distinctive features that create the impression of active and cheerful animals, which can become good and funny pets for families.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 7 to 8 inches
• Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The variety to which this variety belongs is Toy Breeds, and this variety is part of the British royal family. These dogs are socialized with everyone and are always close to masters; the breed is smart. Their curly tails are also unique, inherited from their parents.

As a breed that originated for companionship, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enjoy family environments because they are loyal and friendly creatures.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 12 to 13 inches
• Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• English Cocker Spaniel

The breed known as the English Cocker Spaniel is a hunting dog of multiple uses with roots in 14th-century England. This breed is considered ideal for those with children and for hunting, as known for its friendly character and high activity.

It has a curly tail that is not only aesthetic use but also functional when the creature is working in the field. Being a friendly and playful breed, English Cocker Spaniel remains a favorite among people all over the world.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 15 to 17 inches
• Weight: 26 to 34 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

• Tibetan Terrier

This dog breed comes from Tibet, where monks thought of them as special and holy friends. They are smart and like to protect their owners.

They have a thick, two-layered fur coat that keeps them warm in snowy places. Even though they might look cute, especially with their curly tails that help them balance, they are more than just adorable. 

Key Characteristics:

• Height: 14 to 17 inches
• Weight: 18 to 30 pounds
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have discussed 25 dogs with curly tails and decided to end the list on this note. This guide is ideal for anyone looking to own a new pet or simply figuring out better ways to care for their dog. You can also read more about other Dog Breeds and everything you need to know about your pet. Please leave your thoughts in a comment below and let us know which curly-tailed dog you have a weakness for!

Author Bio

Himani is a dog lover who works for DogExpress. She writes to provide advice and informative articles on everything about dogs, from articles on different breeds to extensive dog food reviews.