Five Dog Breeds That Have Curly Tails

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If you didn’t already know, a dog’s tail is really a part of the dog’s spine, only a continuation of it, but instead of a rigid vertebrae, the tail is flexible. The dog’s tail is used for many different things, first, it helps with balance, it works to help a dog run, stay warm, swim, and to us, the most obvious thing a tail does, is to help a dog express itself. You see a dog tuck its tail between its legs when it is scared, depressed, not feeling well or other down emotions. But what we love the most is when a dog wags its tail, because we know that the dog is happy and feeling good. If you have ever thought about how many different types of tails different breeds have, then you probably are familiar with the curled tail some breeds have. Let’s take a look at five different breeds that sport a curly tail to learn more about them.

Samoyed

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This is an arctic breed of dog that was bred to work, hunt, and herd reindeer. They have strong endurance and are built to withstand extreme temperatures in the cold, especially because one of their biggest jobs was, and still is, to haul sleds in Siberia. Their thick, beautiful coats keep them warm in such cold climates, but more than that, their tails also play a role in their body’s warming mechanisms. Samoyeds have beautiful, fluffy tails that curl high above their backs and as beautiful and regal looking as it is, it serves a purpose. The tail swoops over the back to help keep them warm when they sleep. They can sweep it over their nose during sleepy time to keep them warm during the night when sleeping outdoors.

Basenji

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This is a unique breed of dog in that it is most known for being a bark-less breed of dog. Although the Basenji’s do not bark, they do make lots of other types of sounds, from growling to whining, whimpering and more. These are hunting dogs; sturdy and agile, fast and accurate, and their silent voice is often compared to that of the lion, in that they can hunt like a silent stalker. The Basenji is one of the breeds of dogs that sports a curled tail, though, unlike some that curl directly over the center of the back, this breed curls over to one side or the other of the back. Basenjis are one breed of dog that it isn’t clear if they can actually wag their tail. If you ever have the pleasure of meeting a Basenji, see if you can get him to wag their tail for you.

Chihuahua

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The Chihuahua may be small, but it is one of the most popular curly-tailed dog breeds there is. The breed hails from Mexico and was known to be owned by the wealthy Aztecs who thought they were sacred dogs. Like some curly-tailed breeds, this breed doesn’t need their curly tails to help keep them warm, it more waves like a fan over their backs, shaped like an open curve or adorable loop. There are two types of Chihuahuas, short-haired and long-haired, and those with long, sport a feathery long tail that curves just a profoundly as their short-haired kin.

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are Japanese bred dogs that were bred to hunt in the deep brush and in the wild shrub. The name, Shiba Inu is actually interpreted as “little brushwood dog,” for their ability make their way through thick brush and get their prey. These are bold and highly spirited dogs known for their good nature. Weighing in at only about 20 pounds, these little dogs see themselves as much bigger dogs and you can tell by their courage and confidence they display. This is one breed that has a very high-set curled tail that is shaped similar to that of a sickle. The hair on the tail is longer than the fur on the rest of the body, and they use their tail to help with their balance, optimize their mobility and it gives them a more graceful gait and appearance.

Akita

The Akita is a large breed of dog that is often thought of as a fierce, protective dog. They originate from Japan, where they were used as guard dogs. The Akita is fearless and loyal to its owner and will hold their family to its highest esteem. Akita’s are proud dogs and will hold their curled tails high over the back. Although their tails are quite tight as adults, the Akita is born with a straight tail, however, it only takes about a week for my tail to start to curl. To most every stranger, Akita’s are a bit elusive and will show their discernment towards strangers, but they are always allowed to stop and at least admire their beautiful curly tail.

Whether you prefer a dog with a straight or curled tail, there is just something about the curl that will always get you to stop and look at a dog that holds their tail high in a stiff curl. You can tell that these breeds know they have something far different than those with the typical long, straight tail. A curled tail is unique. It’s majestic, and a beautiful characteristic that even non-dog people will take the time to stop and admire.