Cinnamon Rolls to Tight Coils: 11 Dogs with Curly Tails

Quick Take

• One breed's curly tail pulls double duty as a survival tool in freezing temperatures, and the breed responsible is probably not the one you'd expect. See the Malamute's warm tail →
• Some curly tails coil so tightly they can loop around twice, though only one breed on this list actually pulls it off. See the Pug's double loop →
• One athletic breed's spiral tail maintains its perfect shape at full sprint, which is something most curly-tailed dogs cannot claim. See the Basenji's spiral tail →
• At least one dog on this list technically has a curly tail, though you just can't see it without looking very carefully. Spot the hidden Chow tail →

Curly tails are one of those irresistible pup features that instantly make a dog more interesting. Whether tightly coiled like a little cinnamon roll or gently arched over the back, these tails add personality, charm, and a touch of style. For many breeds, their signature curl isn’t just cute; it’s part of their identity, helping them stand out in the dog world.

Curly-tailed dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from large, thick-furred Alaskan breeds to short-haired, pocket-sized pups. Whether continually sweeping from left to right or perfectly perched on their backside, these tails always seem to complement them in just the right way. If you’re a fan of dogs with a little extra twist, you’re in the right place. Here are 11 cute curly-tailed dog breeds that are sure to steal your heart.

1. Pug

The pug is perhaps the most well-known of all the curly-tailed pups. The squishy-faced breed is admired for the tiny curlicue perched on its backside. It curls tightly, sometimes even in a double loop! That little spiral wiggles with every step, perfectly matching the pug’s playful and affectionate nature. It’s quite possibly one of the cutest finishing touches in the dog world.

2. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu’s tail is a fluffy, regal curl that curves proudly over its back. It looks almost too neat, like it was carefully styled each morning. The fluffy tail bounces slightly when they move, adding to this breed’s confident strut. Combined with their foxlike face, it’s one of the Shiba Inu’s most handsome traits.

3. Samoyed

The Samoyed’s tail may get lost in all the fluff at times, but a careful look will reveal the gently curling tail. It’s full, white, and soft, resembling a feathery plume. When they’re on the move, the tail sways like a cloud floating just behind them. In colder climates, they even use it to keep their noses warm while sleeping. Their extra furry tail adds to their famously cheerful and friendly appearance.

4. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute’s tail is big, fluffy, and gently curved into a soft arc. It’s less tightly curled than others on this list, featuring one consistent bend. like their Siberian Husky relatives, they can also use it for warmth in cold weather, so it’s equal parts practical and beautiful.

5. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian’s tail is a fluffy plume that curls gracefully over its back. Though its tail tends to blend into its cloud-like coat, when isolated, it looks much like a feather boa! When they strut (as all Pomeranians tend to do), that adorable curly appendage struts right along with them, adding to their confident little swagger. It makes this tiny fur ball even cuter!

6. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua’s tail may be small, but it still knows how to make a statement. It often curves upward or slightly over the back, adding an interesting detail to their tiny frame. When they’re excited, that little curl flicks back and forth with a surprising amount of energy! This tail was clearly designed for maximum cuteness.

7. Basenji

The Basenji sports a unique tail that curls tightly into a perfectly wound spiral. It’s neat, compact, and always sits high on the back. The slightly poofy, curved tail nicely complements this African breed’s sleek, athletic frame. Even when they run, the tail stays poised, rarely losing its shape. It’s one of those features that makes the Basenji instantly recognizable.

8. Keeshond

As one of the fluffiest breeds on this list, the Keeshond features a thick, luxurious curled tail that blends into their dense coat, creating an extra layer of fluffiness. When they wag their tail, it’s like a soft wave rolling back and forth across their back. The ultra-poofy tail also adds to their signature “teddy bear” appearance. It’s impossible not to notice the sheer plushness of it.

9. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow’s tail is like a plush pom-pom attached to its backside. Thanks to the thick fur covering their whole body, the tail gets lost in all that fluff. You might almost miss it, until it starts to move. The tail completes their lion-like look; it’s soft, stylish, and unmistakably Chow Chow.

10. Akita

No list of curly-tailed canines would be complete without the Akita. This Japanese breed is as well known for its plush tail that curls over its back as it is for its profound loyalty. The most well-known Akita is Hachiko. Born in 1923, Hachiko accompanied his owner to the Shibuya Train Station near Tokyo twice a day and continued to do so for nine years after his owner passed away when the dog was 18 months old. A statue was erected at the station shortly before his death in 1934.

11. Shar-Pei

As babies, Shar-Peis may be more associated with their loose skin and wrinkles that cover their head, neck and body than their curly tail. The accordion-like appearance wanes as this Chinese breed matures. The breed standard, however, is clear: “The absence of a complete tail is a disqualification,” according to the American Kennel Club. The Shar-Pei’s tail is set high and is thick and round at the base, tapers to a fine point, and curls over the back—a characteristic feature.