Some dog breeds just have that extra flair, and their curly tail shows it. You have probably seen one with a tail that curls neatly over its back, like it’s almost making a statement. It’s part of their looks and charm, yes!! But for many dog breeds, that curly tail is part of who they are.
These tails covering the back help with balance, show emotion, and in some cases… even keep them warm in cold weather. We have rounded up nine such dog breeds with unusually curled tails upwards. Their tails curve up and over like it is their signature move. You will find little fluffballs to strong sled dogs here.
Let’s talk about a dog’s curled tail.
Dog Breeds With Unusually Curled Tails Upwards
1. Chow Chow
Straight from ancient China and wrapped in a thick lion-like coat, the Chow Chow has one of the most iconic curled tails in the dog world.
Key Traits
Curly tail that sits high and tight over the back of that dense coat
Thick double coat and weather-resistant
Independent and cat-like temperament
Chow Chows walk with pride. They float. Purina mentions they are a large dog with a woolly undercoat and that the high-curled tail arches over their back with purpose. It adds to their bear-like silhouette. These pups were originally bred to be hunting dogs, and that tail adds to the guarding instincts. It is more like a breed standard.
According to the AKC, they have an aloof dignity with a muscular build. And that raised tail adds to their mysterious and almost royal demeanor.
2. Keeshond
“The smiling Dutchman”. Fluffy. Friendly. Always ready for a family photo. The Keeshond’s curled tail is a signature for this breed.
Key Traits
Tail curls tightly and lies flat against the back.
Thick coat and distinct facial “spectacles”
Extremely affectionate and loyal dog
The AKC describes them as “the closest relatives of the German Spitz with a plumed tail carried high over the back”. Previously known as the Dutch barge dog, they may not be as famous as the Siberian Husky, but this medium-length dog has a curly tail.
The tail curls tightly but feather-soft across the back. Combined with their plush, dense coat, like other northern breeds, nature truly designed them to be snuggly dogs. Keeshonds were once watchdogs on the boats. Their bark is surprisingly powerful for such a fluffball. But don’t worry… they are all love.
3. Norwegian Elkhound
Hailing from the rugged landscape and frigid weather of Scandinavia, the Norwegian Elkhound carries its tail like a proud warrior.
Key Traits
Tightly curled tail, firm and high
Medium-length body and large feet
Originally bred to hunt large game like elk and bear
The Elkhound’s tail curls in a tight loop. It never falls flat. It is stiff, alert, and always standing tall… just like the dog. These ancient northern breeds were made for hunting dog duties, often tracking massive elk through snow.
And if you are thinking that a curly tail helps them in the wild, you bet!! It provides extra warmth and balance when trekking through icy terrains. It’s not only a tail, it’s a gear they use to maintain their connection with nature.
4. Alaskan Malamute
The big fluffy dog with big power on the glorious snowplow trail.
Key Traits
Bushy tail carried in a plume over the tail
Super thick coat for harsh, cold climates
Bred to haul heavy loads across long distances
WebMD states they are an affectionate dog with a well-furred body and a cap over their head. When an Alaskan Malamute’s tail goes up, you know they are ready. This breed’s tail curls into a fluffy arch that rests directly over the back or leans to one side.
This tail is for looks, we agree!! But it also helps their nose warm when these animals are sleeping in cold weather. That’s right.. these dogs LITERALLY sleep with their tail covering their face for extra heat. Built for cold, bred for endurance, and designed with tail perfection.
5. Samoyed
If marshmallows were dogs, they would be Samoyeds.
Key Traits
Classic curled tail over the back
Sparkling white, dense coat
Playful, gentle, and people-focused
PetMD mentions them as “dogs with pure-white fluffy coats, curly tails, friendly personalities, and love for cold weather. This smiling sled dog from Siberia has a tail as fluffy as its body. And trust us… That’s saying something. The tail curls naturally and lies to one side when they are relaxed. But when they are alert or cold, that curl tightens right up.
These dogs were originally bred to pull sleds, herd reindeer, and keep their humans warm. Yes, sleeping on or next to their owners in extreme cold. They look like wolves, and their thick curly tail is a built-in heater.
6. Pug
Small dog. Big tail game.
Key Traits
Tight double curl is the breed standard
Round body, short snout, and huge personality
Extremely affectionate and clownish
No one rocks the curly tails quite like a Pug. In fact, the curled tail is ideal in show dogs. That tight swirl is more than cute. It looks iconic with their wrinkled faces.
Pugs were originally bred to be the companions of Chinese emperors. And they have kept their royal charm with muscles. They are little goofballs, snugglers at heart, and yes… will follow you from room to room just to sit on your face.
7. Basenji
The barkless dog with a twisty little tail.
Key Traits
Tightly curled tail resting on one side
Independent and highly intelligent
Known for yodels instead of barks
The Basenji does not bark. But it does express itself with one of the most stylish curly tails. This ancient hunting dog breed from Africa uses body language more than sound.
Purina mentions they have a wrinkled forehead and their tail curls tightly, always perched perfectly. They are sleek, graceful, and a little aloof. But oh … when a Basenji bonds with you, that connection is deep.
8. Finnish Spitz
The national dog of Finland… and proud of it!
Key Traits
Foxy look with a plumed and curled tail
Energetic and alert dog
Barks to communicate (a lot!!)
Imagine a dog that looks like a fiery little fox, tail and all! The Finnish Spitz has a golden-red coat, prickly ears, and a heavily curled tail that plumes over the back. They are curious and eager to please dogs, which comes in handy for security purposes as well.
They were bred as hunting dogs and alerted humans to birds in motion or game with their bark. They are lively, talkative, and loyal dogs.
9. Shiba Inu
Compact, bold, and a tail that speaks volumes.
Key Traits
Thick and curly tail that loops over the back
Confident and slightly stubborn dog
One of the oldest and most beloved Japanese dog breeds
Ah, the Shiba Inu. A walking meme. But behind the viral fame is a proud dog breed with ancient roots that responds poorly to training, but with time and positive reinforcement techniques, you can win the heart of a Shiba Inu. The tail curls in a strong arch, resting over the spine, completing the breed’s clean figure.
They were bred for hunting in rugged terrain. That strong tail helps them balance as they dart through the fields. Independent but fiercely loyal, these puppies will make you earn their love.
Conclusion
The next time you see a pup with a tail doing an elegant over-the-back swoop, take a second to review. There’s more behind that curl than meets the eye. Maybe the legacy of ancient sled dogs. Maybe the centuries of companionship. Or maybe… It’s just how they say, “I am proud to be me”.
These dog breeds with unusually curled tails upwards are proof that sometimes, the tail wags the history. And if you are ever going for a pup with a curly tail, take our word… You are getting a cute dog with purpose, presence, and a tail worth talking about!!
