15 Dog Breeds That Resemble Foxes Or Wolves More Than Most Think

Ever seen a dog that looked like it belonged in a forest instead of your neighbor’s backyard? That quick moment of hesitation before realizing it’s not wild says a lot. Certain breeds carry that natural edge. Stick around because what you’ll find here might make you rethink what a domesticated dog can look like.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute has upright ears and a thick double coat that rises from its broad head. This appearance gives it a resemblance to arctic wolves. Originally bred for pulling sleds, this strong working dog excels in teamwork and thrives in cold weather environments.

Finnish Spitz

With its bright coat and pointed features, the Finnish Spitz bears a likeness to a red fox. It is called the “Barking Bird Dog,” because it uses rapid, rhythmic barking to alert hunters. For it to stay happy and avoid developing destructive behavior, it needs regular mental and physical exercise.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog 

Developed by crossing Carpathian wolves with German Shepherds, the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog has a lean frame and amber-toned eyes. Its stamina and independence make it a challenge for novice owners. Due to its wolf ancestry, it’s banned in Norway and restricted in several American states.

Indian Spitz

Created for circus performance, its intelligence makes it a highly trainable dog. The India Spitz is often mistaken for a white fox because of its pointed ears, narrow muzzle, and expressive eyes. It thrives in engaging environments and has a rich history as a cherished companion in India.

Tamaskan

Originally developed from Husky-type dogs, this canine exhibits strong endurance and intelligence. Despite its wolf-like appearance, DNA tests conducted through the Tamaskan Dog Diversity Project confirm it has no recent wolf ancestry. It’s a social and trainable breed and does best with owners who enjoy outdoor activities.

Korean Jindo

The Korean Jindo has a narrow face and pointed ears that give it a fox-like resemblance. Known for its sharp memory and unwavering loyalty, this breed bonds deeply with its family. With proper guidance, the Jindo thrives as an affectionate protector.

Shiba Inu

Compact and energetic, the Shiba Inu has a red coat and curled tail that add to its fox-like charm. As one of Japan’s oldest native breeds, it retains traits from its ancient hunting lineage. Given its intelligence, mental stimulation is key to preventing boredom-related behavior.

Northern Inuit Dog

Recognized for its roles as direwolves in television shows, the Northern Inuit Dog, has a gray coat and strong facial features that collectively give it a wolf-like appearance. Though it looks wild, it was developed as a companion and responds well to positive reinforcement training.

Saarloos Wolfdog

A cross between a German Shepherd and a European wolf, the Saarloos Wolfdog is lean and long-muzzled. Unlike typical domestic dogs, it often prefers solitude and struggles with traditional obedience training. This animal is best handled by someone experienced with independent and aloof breeds.

American Eskimo Dog (Miniature)

Its thick white coat and upright ears, makes it mirror the look of an arctic fox. The Miniature American Eskimo Dog is intelligent and lively, thriving on mental engagements. Despite its size, it remains highly alert, which makes it a dependable watchdog in attentive households.

Utonagan

The Utonagan was developed to look like a wolf while having a gentle, trainable temperament. It combines features from several northern breeds, including the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. Calm and social, it fits well into homes that can meet its exercise needs.

Volpino Italiano

With a thick coat and upright ears, the Volpino Italiano looks like a miniature fox. Bred in Italy as a watchdog, this small canine is quick to bark and highly observant. It suits owners who want a compact, active dog that stays engaged indoors.

Pomeranian (Red Coat)

Sharp muzzle and a vibrant red coat give this breed an unmistakable fox-like presence. Queen Victoria’s love for the Pomeranian helped popularize its miniature size. Small but fearless, it remains highly vocal and aware to represent the lively spirit of wild canids.

Canadian Eskimo Dog

One of North America’s rarest indigenous breeds, this wolf-like dog almost faced extinction in the 20th century. The Canadian Eskimo Dog was historically used for sled pulling, and it travels through cold terrains with ease. Its thick coat and powerful build reinforce its Arctic heritage.

Dhole

Also called the Asiatic Wild Dog, the Dhole has pointed ears and a slim body similar to that of some foxes. Agile and vocal, it communicates with high-pitched calls to guide its pack in coordinated movements. Unlike domestic dogs, it thrives in tightly bonded social groups for survival in the wild.