12 Best Dog Breeds With Curly Tails: Complete Guide & Comparison
Discover 12 dog breeds with curly tails, from Pugs to Samoyeds. Compare sizes, energy levels, grooming needs, and find the perfect curly-tailed companion.
What Makes a Tail "Curly" — And Why It Matters
Before we rank the best dog breeds with curly tails, let's clarify what qualifies. A true curly tail (also called a ring tail, sickle tail, or corkscrew tail) curls over the dog's back or to one side, forming a distinct loop or spiral. This differs from a simply "curved" tail that sweeps upward without completing a circle.
Our Selection Criteria
To make this list, breeds must meet these requirements:
- Genetic tail curl: The breed standard (per AKC or FCI) must describe a naturally curled, ring, or sickle tail — not a tail that's been docked or artificially shaped
- Recognized breed status: Must be AKC-recognized or FCI-recognized with established breed standards
- Consistent expression: The curly tail trait must appear reliably across the breed population, not as a rare variation
We've excluded breeds with corkscrew tails caused by hemivertebrae (spinal malformations common in Bulldogs and Boston Terriers) because these represent structural health concerns rather than desirable breed traits. We've also excluded docked-tail breeds like Boxers and Dobermans.
The 12 Best Dog Breeds With Curly Tails
We've organized these breeds by size class — toy/small, medium, and large/giant — to help you find the right fit for your living situation and lifestyle.
Toy & Small Breeds (Under 25 lb / 11 kg)
1. Pug
Size: 14–18 lb (6–8 kg) | Height: 10–13 in (25–33 cm)
Tail trait: Tight double curl resting over the hip — the AKC breed standard calls a double curl "perfection"
Pugs carry one of the most iconic curly tails in the dog world. Their tightly wound corkscrew tail sits flat against the body. Bred as companion dogs for Chinese emperors, Pugs thrive on human contact and adapt well to apartment living. Expect moderate shedding despite the short coat, and budget for potential brachycephalic health costs — Pugs average $1,500–$3,000 annually in veterinary care due to breathing, eye, and skin-fold issues.
2. Pomeranian
Size: 3–7 lb (1.4–3.2 kg) | Height: 6–7 in (15–18 cm)
Tail trait: Heavily plumed tail that lies flat over the back in a loose ring
The Pomeranian's tail is more than just curled — it's a dramatic fan of fur that arches over the back, giving the breed its signature silhouette. Descended from larger Spitz-type sled dogs, Poms retain that northern breed tail carriage in miniature. Their double coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent matting. Professional grooming runs $40–$65 per session every 6–8 weeks. Poms are alert, confident, and surprisingly bold for their size.
3. Bichon Frise
Size: 12–18 lb (5–8 kg) | Height: 9.5–11.5 in (24–29 cm)
Tail trait: Long, plumed tail carried gracefully curled over the back
Bichons carry their tails in a relaxed curve that drapes over the topline, creating an elegant arc. The tail's white, curly hair blends seamlessly with the breed's powder-puff coat. Originally bred as sailing companions and later circus performers, Bichons are highly trainable and excel in agility and trick training. Their hypoallergenic coat requires professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($50–$75 per session), making them one of the higher-maintenance small breeds.
4. Basenji
Size: 22–24 lb (10–11 kg) | Height: 16–17 in (41–43 cm)
Tail trait: Tight single or double curl carried forward over the back
The Basenji's tail curls so tightly it resembles a cinnamon roll pressed against the dog's back. This Central African hunting breed is known for its yodel-like vocalization (they don't bark) and cat-like grooming habits. Basenjis are independent thinkers — not ideal for first-time owners. They require secure fencing (they're exceptional climbers and jumpers) and patient, positive reinforcement training. Puppy prices range from $1,500–$2,500 from responsible breeders.
Medium Breeds (25–65 lb / 11–29 kg)
5. Shiba Inu
Size: 17–23 lb (8–10 kg) | Height: 13.5–16.5 in (34–42 cm)
Tail trait: Thick, sickle or curled tail carried over the back — single curl is most common
Shibas carry their tails in a confident forward curl that balances their compact, athletic frame. Japan's most popular companion dog, the Shiba Inu has exploded in global popularity (partly thanks to the "Doge" meme). Their cat-like independence makes them less biddable than breeds like Labs — expect recall training to take 6–12 months of consistent work. Shibas shed heavily twice yearly (called "blowing coat") and need daily brushing during these 3–4 week periods. Purchase price: $1,500–$3,500.
6. Chow Chow
Size: 45–70 lb (20–32 kg) | Height: 17–20 in (43–51 cm)
Tail trait: Heavily feathered tail carried curled tightly over the back
The Chow Chow's tail is a dense plume that curls over the back, complementing the breed's lion-like mane. One of the oldest recognizable breeds (depicted in Chinese artifacts from 206 BC), Chows are notoriously aloof with strangers and fiercely loyal to their family. They require early, extensive socialization — ideally 100+ positive stranger interactions before 16 weeks. Their blue-black tongue and straight hind legs give them a distinctive stilted gait. Grooming demands are high: 20–30 minutes of brushing daily during shedding season.
7. Keeshond
Size: 35–45 lb (16–20 kg) | Height: 17–18 in (43–46 cm)
Tail trait: Plumed tail tightly curled and lying flat over the back
The Keeshond's tail curls so tightly against the back that it creates the illusion of a "no-tail" silhouette from certain angles — earning the breed the nickname "the dog with no tail" in some circles. Originally bred as watchdogs on Dutch barges, Keeshonden are notably friendly, biddable, and eager to please. They're one of the easiest Spitz breeds to train, ranking well in obedience trials. Their silver-and-black "spectacles" markings around the eyes are a breed hallmark. Purchase price: $1,500–$2,500.
8. Norwegian Elkhound
Size: 48–55 lb (22–25 kg) | Height: 19.5–20.5 in (50–52 cm)
Tail trait: Thick, tightly curled tail carried over the center of the back
Bred to hunt moose (elk) in Scandinavian forests, the Elkhound's curled tail serves a functional purpose — it protects the nose when the dog curls up to sleep in snow. These dogs are vocal (they'll alert-bark at anything unusual), energetic (60–90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily), and intelligent but stubborn. They excel in scent work, barn hunt, and tracking. Elkhounds shed moderately year-round and heavily twice annually. Purchase price: $1,200–$2,000.
9. Finnish Spitz
Size: 20–30 lb (9–14 kg) | Height: 15–20 in (38–51 cm)
Tail trait: Curled tail carried forward over the thigh, forming a circular brush
Finland's national dog has a tail that curls forward in a graceful ring, draping over the upper thigh. The Finnish Spitz is a "bark pointer" — they locate game birds and bark rapidly (up to 160 barks per minute) to alert hunters. This vocal tendency translates to home life: they will announce visitors, squirrels, and falling leaves. Positive reinforcement training focused on "quiet" cues is essential. They're good with children and other dogs when properly socialized. Purchase price: $1,000–$1,800.
Large & Giant Breeds (65+ lb / 29+ kg)
10. Akita
Size: 70–130 lb (32–59 kg) | Height: 24–28 in (61–71 cm)
Tail trait: Large, full tail curled over the back in a single, double, or triple curl
The Akita's tail is massive — a thick, powerful curl that balances the breed's substantial head and chest. Japanese Akitas (Inu) and American Akitas have slightly different tail standards, but both require a pronounced curl. Akitas are intensely loyal to family but aloof and potentially aggressive with strange dogs, especially same-sex dogs. They require experienced owners, extensive socialization, and secure 6-foot fencing. Annual care costs run $2,000–$3,500 due to size-related expenses (food, joint supplements, potential hip dysplasia treatment). Purchase price: $1,500–$4,500.
11. Samoyed
Size: 35–65 lb (16–29 kg) | Height: 19–23.5 in (48–60 cm)
Tail trait: Long, heavily plumed tail carried forward over the back or to the side
The Samoyed's tail is a glorious white plume that curls over the back like a feather duster. Bred by Siberian nomads to herd reindeer and sleep on their owners' feet for warmth, Samoyeds are intensely social and prone to separation anxiety if left alone more than 4–6 hours. Their white double coat requires 30+ minutes of brushing daily and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($60–$90 per session). "Sammies" are friendly, vocal, and perpetually smiling — their upturned mouth corners prevent drooling. Purchase price: $2,000–$5,000.
12. Alaskan Malamute
Size: 75–85 lb (34–39 kg) | Height: 23–25 in (58–64 cm)
Tail trait: Well-furred tail carried over the back in a gentle curve (not a tight ring)
The Malamute's tail is a waving plume carried over the back, though it's less tightly curled than the Akita or Samoyed — more of a graceful arc than a closed ring. Bred to pull heavy loads across Arctic tundra, Malamutes are powerful, vocal, and notoriously stubborn. They dig, howl, shed profusely, and require 90+ minutes of daily exercise. Not recommended for apartment living or first-time owners. Malamutes have high prey drive and may not coexist safely with cats or small dogs. Purchase price: $1,500–$3,000.
How These Curly-Tailed Breeds Compare
| Breed | Size Class | Energy Level (hrs/day) | Grooming (weekly hrs) | Family-Friendly | Avg. Purchase Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pug | Toy | 0.5–1 | 0.5 | Excellent | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Pomeranian | Toy | 0.5–1 | 1.5–2 | Good (older kids) | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Bichon Frise | Small | 1–1.5 | 3–4 | Excellent | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Basenji | Small | 1.5–2 | 0.5 | Moderate | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Shiba Inu | Small | 1.5–2 | 1–2 (4+ during sheds) | Good (older kids) | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Chow Chow | Medium | 1–1.5 | 3–4 | Moderate | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Keeshond | Medium | 1.5–2 | 2–3 | Excellent | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Norwegian Elkhound | Medium | 1.5–2.5 | 1.5–2 | Good | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Finnish Spitz | Medium | 1.5–2 | 1–1.5 | Good | $1,000–$1,800 |
| Akita | Large | 1.5–2 | 2–3 | Moderate (experienced homes) | $1,500–$4,500 |
| Samoyed | Medium-Large | 2–2.5 | 4–5 | Excellent | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Alaskan Malamute | Large | 2–3 | 3–4 | Moderate (experienced homes) | $1,500–$3,000 |
Decision Framework: Which Curly-Tailed Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing between these 12 breeds comes down to four practical factors. Use this flowchart to narrow your options:
- Start with your living space:
- Apartment or small home → Pug, Pomeranian, Bichon Frise, Basenji
- House with fenced yard → Shiba Inu, Keeshond, Finnish Spitz, Norwegian Elkhound
- Large property or rural area → Akita, Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, Chow Chow
- Assess your time commitment:
- Less than 1 hour/day for exercise + grooming → Pug, Basenji
- 1–2 hours/day → Shiba Inu, Keeshond, Bichon Frise, Finnish Spitz
- 2+ hours/day → Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, Norwegian Elkhound
- Consider your experience level:
- First-time dog owner → Pug, Bichon Frise, Keeshond
- Some dog experience → Pomeranian, Shiba Inu, Finnish Spitz, Norwegian Elkhound
- Experienced owner only → Basenji, Chow Chow, Akita, Alaskan Malamute
- Factor in household composition:
- Young children (under 8) → Pug, Bichon Frise, Keeshond, Samoyed
- Other dogs in home → Bichon Frise, Keeshond, Samoyed, Finnish Spitz
- Cats or small pets → Pug, Bichon Frise, Keeshond (avoid Basenji, Malamute, Akita due to prey drive)
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Avoid
Honorable Mentions (Didn't Quite Make the Cut)
Tibetan Mastiff: Massive curled tail, but extreme guardian instincts and $3,000–$7,000 purchase price limit their suitability for most homes.
Eurasier: Beautiful Spitz-type curl, but rare in the US (fewer than 500 registered) and difficult to source from responsible breeders.
American Eskimo Dog: Gorgeous plumed tail carried over the back, but we prioritized breeds with tighter, more pronounced curls for this list.
Breeds With "Curly" Tails to Approach With Caution
English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier: These breeds have corkscrew tails caused by hemivertebrae — malformed spinal vertebrae that can lead to spinal cord compression, incontinence, and hind-limb weakness. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, hemivertebrae-related spinal issues may require surgical intervention costing $3,000–$8,000. We excluded these breeds because their tail curl represents a health concern, not a functional breed trait.
Pug (partial caveat): While Pugs made our list for their iconic double-curl tail, prospective owners should know that extreme tail curl (tight corkscrew) can also be associated with hemivertebrae. Responsible breeders screen for spinal health — always ask for vertebral X-rays before purchasing a Pug puppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some dog breeds have curly tails?
Curly tails in Spitz-type and northern breeds (Samoyed, Akita, Malamute, Shiba Inu) evolved as functional adaptations. When these dogs curl up to sleep in cold weather, the tail covers the nose and face, providing warmth and filtering cold air. In companion breeds (Pugs, Bichons), the curly tail was selected for aesthetic appeal during centuries of selective breeding.
Is a curly tail a sign of health problems?
It depends on the breed. In Spitz breeds, a curled tail is normal and healthy. In brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Boston Terriers), a corkscrew tail often accompanies hemivertebrae — a spinal malformation that can cause neurological issues. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice changes in your dog's tail carriage, weakness in the hind legs, or incontinence, as these may signal spinal problems.
Can a dog's curly tail be straightened?
No — and you shouldn't attempt it. A curly tail is determined by bone structure and ligament tension. Attempting to straighten or "train" a tail to hang down can cause pain, injury, and permanent damage. If you prefer a dog with a straight tail, choose a breed with that trait naturally (Labrador, Greyhound, etc.).
Do curly-tailed dogs shed more?
Not necessarily — shedding depends on coat type, not tail shape. However, many curly-tailed breeds are double-coated Spitz types (Samoyed, Akita, Shiba Inu, Malamute) that shed heavily twice yearly. Single-coated curly-tailed breeds like Pugs and Basenjis shed moderately year-round but don't experience dramatic seasonal "blows."
What's the most family-friendly curly-tailed breed?
The Keeshond and Bichon Frise rank highest for families with children. Keeshonden were bred as companion watchdogs and are notably patient and trainable. Bichons are cheerful, sturdy for their size, and eager to please. Samoyeds also excel with families but require significantly more grooming and exercise.
How much should I budget for a curly-tailed breed?
Purchase prices range from $1,000 (Finnish Spitz, Norwegian Elkhound) to $5,000 (Samoyed from champion lines). First-year costs including purchase, supplies, veterinary care, and training typically run $3,500–$8,000 depending on breed size and grooming needs. Annual ongoing costs range from $1,500 (small, low-grooming breeds like Basenjis) to $4,000+ (large, high-grooming breeds like Samoyeds).
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Curly-Tailed Companion
A curly tail is more than an aesthetic trait — it often signals a breed's origin, function, and temperament tendencies. Spitz-type breeds with curled tails tend to be independent, alert, and cold-weather adapted. Companion breeds with curly tails tend to be people-oriented and adaptable to indoor living.
Whatever breed you choose, source your puppy from a responsible breeder who performs health testing (OFA hips, elbows, and breed-specific genetic panels) and offers a take-back guarantee. Alternatively, check breed-specific rescues — AKC Rescue Network lists breed-specific rescues for many curly-tailed breeds including Shibas, Samoyeds, and Akitas.
Your curly-tailed dog's tail is a barometer of mood and health. A sudden change in tail carriage — dropping, tucking, or refusing to curl — warrants a veterinary check for pain, injury, or illness. For more breed-specific guidance, consult the AKC breed standards and discuss your lifestyle with your veterinarian before making your final decision.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
