10 Unique Dog Tails: From Curly to Bobbed Breed Characteristics

Dog tails come in many shapes and sizes, from fluffy and long to short and tightly curled. Learning about different dog tail types helps you understand more about each breed’s unique story and background.

When you notice the way a dog’s tail looks, you can spot clues about their origins and even some of their behaviors. Each tail shape adds to what makes a breed different from the rest.

1. Akita – known for its plush tail that curls over the back

• When you see an Akita, one of the first things you notice is its thick, plush tail. This tail is large and full, giving the dog a distinct look.
• The tail is not just any tail—it usually curls over the dog’s back. Each Akita has a unique curl, and you may see a full curl, a double curl, or even a three-quarter curl.
• This special tail is not only for looks. In cold weather, an Akita may use its tail to cover its nose while resting. The curl and the thick fur both help protect the dog from harsh weather.
• The high-set, fluffy tail is part of what gives the breed its sturdy, proud appearance. It’s one of the trademarks that set the Akita apart from other breeds.

2. Basenji – distinctive curly tail that arches tightly

• When you see a Basenji, one of the first things you’ll notice is its tail. The Basenji has a tightly curled tail that sits high on its back. This curl is a key feature of the breed.
• The tail forms a neat arch or even a double curl in some dogs. Each Basenji’s tail is unique, with the tightness of the curl sometimes varying from one dog to another.
• A Basenji’s tail isn’t just for looks. Along with the short coat and wrinkled forehead, the curled tail helps make this breed easily recognizable. The combination of these features gives the Basenji a very distinctive outline compared to other breeds.
• If you’re interested in the details of the Basenji’s appearance, you can see more about its curled tail and physical traits from reliable organizations. Features like the curled tail are part of what has made the Basenji stand out for generations.

3. Finnish Spitz – notable for its curled, bushy tail

• When you see a Finnish Spitz, one of the first things you’ll notice is its curled, bushy tail. The tail forms a tight curve up over the back, creating a standout feature against its thick double coat. This curly tail helps give the dog its classic “fox-like” look, which many people find charming.
• The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized dog that stands out for more than just its tail. Bright red-gold fur matches the fluffy tail, making this breed easy to recognize from a distance. Its overall shape is well-balanced and square, and the tail completes this symmetrical appearance. You’ll often spot the curled tail carried proudly, especially when the dog is alert.
• This breed was originally used for hunting in Finland. The tail’s bushy texture and curve likely provided some protection from weather during long hunting trips.

4. Norwegian Buhund – carries a curled tail over the back

• The Norwegian Buhund belongs to the spitz family. You will notice that this group often has thick double coats, prick ears, and curled tails. The Buhund’s tail is always held high and forms a tight curl, which is a common feature in spitz breeds.
• This breed is a little under medium size, and its tail is one of its main features. The curled tail helps keep the dog warm in cold climates, thanks to its origin in Norway’s harsh weather.
• Appearance is not the only thing this tail is useful for. The tail’s position and movement can also show how the dog is feeling. If you are looking for a unique breed with a classic curled tail, the Norwegian Buhund stands out as a clear example.

5. Chow Chow – has a thick, fluffy tail that curls upward

• When you see a Chow Chow, its tail stands out right away. The tail is thick, full of fur, and curls up tightly over the dog’s back. This look adds to the Chow Chow’s unique appearance.
• The tail is not just fluffy, but also strong and sturdy. It blends well with the dog’s dense double coat, making the tail seem even larger. The way the tail sits high and curves upward gives the Chow Chow a proud and alert look.
• Chow Chows have a long history in China, where they have been part of the culture for hundreds of years. Their curly tails are one of the breed’s most noticeable features, and they stand out in a crowd of dogs.

6. Pug – famous for its small, tight curled tail

• If you are looking for a dog with a very distinctive tail, the Pug stands out. The breed’s small, tightly curled tail is one of its most noticeable features. It almost forms a complete circle and sits high on the back.
• The Pug’s tail is not just for show. It adds to the breed’s charming and unique look, along with its wrinkled face and compact body. These features have made the dog easy to recognize and very popular as a companion.
• Pugs have a playful and loving personality. They were bred to be close to people and make great pets in many homes. The strong, tightly curled tail is something you will notice right away when meeting a Pug for the first time.

7. Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog – naturally short bobbed tail

• The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog stands out for its naturally short, “stumpy” tail. This unique tail type is caused by a genetic mutation that results in a bobbed or nearly tailless look from birth. Unlike most breeds with short tails, their tails are not docked.
• You may notice that the tail, when present, is usually covered with fur and often looks squared off at the end. The stumpy tail is fully furry, without a bald spot or scarring, which can help you tell it apart from a docked tail. The breed standards prefer naturally bobbed tails, and this feature is widely recognized as a key trait.
• These dogs are medium-sized with a muscular build. They were bred for herding cattle in Australia, so they are tough and agile. Their appearance is rugged, with a square profile and strong legs, built for work in the field.

8. Brittany Spaniel – known for a naturally short tail

• The Brittany Spaniel stands out for its unique tail. Many Brittanys are born with a naturally short tail, called a bobtail. This feature gives the breed a distinct look compared to many other sporting dogs.
• You may also see Brittanys with longer tails. In some cases, their tails are docked, but this is less common today. Some dogs carry genes for both tail types, so not all Brittany Spaniels look the same.
• Brittanys are known for their athletic build and active nature. They are considered small to medium-sized dogs. They are also recognized for their eager expression and alert personality.

9. German Shepherd – classic long tail breed

• When you picture a German Shepherd, the long, bushy tail often stands out. The tail usually curves gently downward when relaxed, which helps the dog with balance and movement.
• German Shepherds belong to a group of breeds known for their classic long tails. This tail type works well for their original jobs as herding and working dogs. It helps them stay steady and agile on rough or uneven ground.
• Most purebred German Shepherds have this long tail, but there may be rare cases where a dog is born with a shorter tail. However, the classic look is a full, bushy tail that reaches at least to the hock.
• If you see a German Shepherd’s tail held high and wagging, it often signals excitement or alertness. When relaxed or comfortable, the tail will hang low and be softly curved. 

10. Irish Wolfhound – long, flowing tail

• If you are looking for a dog with a striking tail, the Irish Wolfhound stands out. This breed has a long, flowing tail that tapers gracefully to a point.
• The tail of the Irish Wolfhound adds to the breed’s elegant look. It hangs low when the dog is at rest but rises in a gentle curve when the dog is moving.
• Irish Wolfhounds are giant sighthounds known for their size and gentle nature. The tail has a bushy appearance, with a texture that matches the wiry coat seen on most Irish Wolfhounds.
• This long tail is not just for show. It helps with balance, especially when the dog is running or changing direction quickly. The length and flexibility of the tail match the breed’s need for agility as a historic hunter.