Top 10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Foxes: Fox-Like Dog Breeds

Top 10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Foxes

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a dog that looks like a fox, you're in luck! Several dog breeds boast striking fox-like features such as pointed ears, bushy tails, and intelligent expressions. These fox-inspired dogs bring both wild beauty and loyal companionship into your home.

From tiny, apartment-friendly pups like the Alaskan Klee Kai to the majestic, snow-loving Siberian Husky, these breeds are the perfect blend of elegance and playfulness. Whether you’re looking for an energetic companion or a calm, affectionate friend, these fluffy fox-lookalikes offer a captivating addition to any family. Let's explore the top 10 fluffy dog breeds that will make you do a double-take!

10. Eurasier

The Eurasier is a striking, fox-like dog known for its beautiful coat and calm demeanor.

This breed was developed in Germany by crossing the Chow Chow, Samoyed, and Wolfspitz (Keeshond), and it combines the best traits of these breeds a keen sense of independence, loyalty, and a strong bond with their families.

Eurasier dogs are medium-sized, with a dense double coat that requires regular grooming, especially during shedding season.

Origin Story: The Eurasier was developed in Germany in the 1960s by crossing the Chow Chow, Samoyed, and Wolfspitz to create a companion dog with a calm temperament and fox-like appearance.

Personality: The Eurasier is known for being calm, affectionate, independent, and loyal, making them great family companions and excellent with children and other pets.

9. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful dog with a wolf-like appearance, embodying the strength and beauty of its wild fox cousins.

Originally bred by the Mahlemut Inupiaq people of Alaska for hauling heavy freight across frozen terrain, Malamutes have a majestic and dignified presence.

They are known for their intelligence and independent nature, making them excellent working dogs, but they also require firm training to prevent them from becoming too independent.

Origin Story: One of the oldest Arctic sled dog breeds, developed by the Mahlemut Inupiaq people of Alaska for hauling heavy freight across frozen terrain. Alaskan Malamutes were prized for their strength and ability to endure extreme conditions.

Personality: Dignified, loyal, and playful, Malamutes are gentle giants who love their families but can be independent and stubborn. They thrive on regular exercise and attention but are generally friendly and good with other animals.

8. Nordic Spitz

The Nordic Spitz, also known as the Norrbottenspets, is a rare Swedish breed that closely resembles a fox in both appearance and personality.

These dogs are known for their pointed ears, curled tails, and alert expressions.

Originally used for hunting squirrels and pine marten, the Nordic Spitz is an active and energetic breed that thrives in environments where they can run and explore.

They are independent and intelligent, often working on their own initiative, making them great watchdogs.

Origin Story: Nearly extinct by the 1960s, this ancient Swedish breed was saved through careful breeding programs. They were originally used for hunting squirrel and pine marten.

Personality: Alert, energetic, and independent. They're excellent watchdogs who are affectionate with family but can be reserved with strangers.

7. Samoyed

The Samoyed is a fluffy, white dog known for its "Sammy smile" and fox-like appearance.

Originally bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia, these dogs were used for herding reindeer, sledding, and companionship in harsh, icy conditions.

Samoyeds are incredibly friendly, social, and gentle, making them excellent family pets.

Their thick, soft fur requires regular brushing to prevent matting and manage their heavy seasonal shedding.

Origin Story: Bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia for herding reindeer, sledding, and companionship. They slept with families to provide warmth during harsh winters.

Personality: Gentle, friendly, and social. They're excellent family dogs who love everyone they meet but can be prone to digging and barking.

6. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a majestic, wolf-like dog with striking blue eyes, a thick double coat, and a powerful presence that commands attention.

Known for its resemblance to arctic foxes, this breed was developed by the Chukchi people of Siberia for sledding and companionship.

Siberian Huskies are incredibly energetic and need plenty of physical exercise, making them ideal for active individuals or families.

Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them great companions, but their independent streak can make training a challenge.

Huskies are highly social dogs that do best with other dogs or in households that can provide them with lots of attention.

Origin Story: Bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia over 3,000 years ago for sledding and companionship. They gained fame during the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska.

Personality: Energetic, friendly, and independent. They're pack animals who do best with other dogs and need extensive exercise.

5. Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is a small, fluffy dog with a charming, fox-like face. Developed in the 1920s-1930s, this breed was meant to be a companion dog, and it quickly gained popularity for its sweet personality and beautiful coat.

They have pointed ears, a curled tail, and a pristine white coat that makes them resemble a miniature fox. Japanese Spitz dogs are friendly, affectionate, and intelligent, making them excellent family pets.

They are quiet for a Spitz breed, often being more reserved compared to others. Their self-cleaning coats are remarkably low-maintenance, as they repel dirt and mud.

Origin Story: Developed in Japan in the 1920s-1930s using various Spitz breeds. They were bred specifically to be companion dogs rather than working dogs.

Personality: Affectionate, intelligent, and surprisingly quiet for a Spitz breed. They're excellent with children and make wonderful family pets.

4. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog, often mistaken for an actual Eskimo breed, is an elegant, fluffy companion with fox-like features.

With its bright eyes, thick white coat, and friendly expression, it stands out as a beauty among dog breeds. Despite their name, American Eskimos are descended from German Spitz dogs brought to America by European immigrants.

Known for their intelligence, American Eskimo Dogs excel at tricks and agility, often impressing their families with their performances.

Origin Story: They descended from German Spitz dogs brought to America by European immigrants. In the early 1900s, they gained popularity as circus performers thanks to their intelligence and charm.

Personality: Playful, intelligent, and eager to please. They're excellent family companions who love being the center of attention.

3. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz, known as Finland’s national dog, has a beautiful golden-red coat and a fox-like face that captures the essence of wilderness.

These dogs were originally bred for hunting game birds in the forests of Finland, and their pointed ears and keen sense of hearing make them excellent hunters.

Finnish Spitz dogs are friendly and lively, and they make great family pets.

They are known for their loud bark, and they even have barking competitions in Finland.

Origin Story: Used by Finnish hunters for over 1,000 years to hunt game birds. They're so valued in Finland that harming one was once punishable by fine.

Personality: Lively, friendly, and vocal. They're excellent family dogs who are gentle with children but can be reserved with strangers.

2. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s oldest and most well-known breeds, known for its fox-like appearance and independent personality.

With a curled tail, pointed ears, and sharp eyes, Shiba Inus embody the elegance and alertness of a fox.

Originally bred for hunting small game in mountainous terrain, this breed carries a sense of dignity and confidence.

Origin Story: One of Japan's oldest breeds, dating back over 3,000 years. Originally bred for hunting small game in mountainous terrain, they nearly went extinct during WWII.

Personality: Independent, confident, and sometimes stubborn. They have a cat-like cleanliness and dignity that's both charming and challenging for first-time owners.

1. Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a miniature version of the Siberian Husky, known for its fox-like appearance. This breed has striking facial masks, pointed ears, and a fluffy tail that make it resemble a fox.

Developed in Alaska during the 1970s, the Alaskan Klee Kai was created to be a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky.

Though small in size, they have big personalities, with a mix of energy, intelligence, and independence.

Alaskan Klee Kais are vocal, often "talking" through whining and unique sounds, making them a lively and entertaining pet. Their high energy requires plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.

Origin Story: Developed in Alaska during the 1970s by Linda Spurlin, who wanted to create a companion-sized version of the Alaskan Husky. The name "Klee Kai" means "small dog" in Inuit.

Personality: Intelligent, energetic, and sometimes aloof with strangers – much like actual foxes! They're incredibly loyal to their families but can be quite the escape artists.

Disclaimer:

This list is for informational and entertainment purposes only. While these dog breeds may resemble foxes in appearance, they are distinct species with different behaviors, care needs, and temperaments. Always do thorough research and consult a professional or veterinarian before choosing a pet.