According to Dogtime.com, there are at least 14 different breeds of dogs that have naturally-occurring curly tails.
Curly-tailed dogs include the following:
- Afghan hound
- Bergamasco Sheepdog
- English Sheepdog
- Pyrenean Shepherd
- German Spitz
- Finnish Spitz
- Chow Chow
1. Afghan hound
The Afghan hound has a rich, abundant coat that can be either shaggy or smooth. Their tail is tightly curled and carried over the back.
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog has a curly, corded coat that is particularly resistant to dirt and water. Their tail is carried high over the back as long as possible without touching the ground and can curl up on itself like a watch spring.
The Puli, also known as the Hungarian Water Dog or Hungarian Sheepdog, has a coat that is corded and often slightly wavy or curly. Their tail is tightly curled over the back or to one side.
4. English Sheepdog
The English sheepdog has a double coat with a harsh layer covering a soft inner coat. The outer coat may be straight, but the undercoat tends to have a wave to it. Their tail is curled tightly over the back.
5. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd has long hair that forms a white collar around its neck and chest but can have shorter hair on other parts of the body. Their tail curls up against the back or to one side.
The Keeshond’s water-resistant double coat includes a thick mane around the neck and shoulders. Their tail is carried over the back.
The German Spitz has an outer coat that is dense, coarse, and straight or slightly wavy. Their long fur can be either curly or frizzy. The tail curls up towards their back.
The Finnish Spitz’s curly, thick fur is straight on the back and sides. The tail curls up against the back.
The Komondor’s coat is a unique corded coat that forms long hair hanging down from a center section of hair that stands up like a mop. Their tail hangs down along the hip and is sometimes carried over the back. The features make this breed appealing.
The Chow Chow’s topcoat is very straight and coarse, while its undercoat is thick and soft. Their tail stands up like a flag over the back.
Curly tails are a recessive trait, meaning that both parents must pass on a curly tail for this to happen. The American Kennel Club has cats and dogs with many different breeds. The dogs listed above are unique for their well-pronounced curly tails.