9 Dog Breeds That Look Like Foxes

Foxes are stunning wild creatures, often shown as clever and witty in cartoons. While some people try to keep them as pets, many prefer dogs from the same canine family. Thankfully, the world of dogs is full of variety. You’ll find many breeds that have a strong resemblance to foxes, both in looks and behavior.

This guide explores nine amazing dog breeds that look just like foxes and are just as charming.

1. Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a rare and charming breed with fox-like looks. It was likely brought to Iceland by Vikings and is the only native dog breed from the country, as recognized by the American Kennel Club. This medium-sized herding dog is known for being lively and alert, perfect for active homes.

What Makes Them Unique

With thick fur, upright ears, a curled tail, and a friendly fox-like face, they may look wild, but they are anything but fierce. These dogs are loving, loyal, and get along well with kids, dogs, and even well-behaved cats. Early social training will ensure a sweet and well-adjusted companion for life.

2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small dog with a short body, sharp ears, and reddish fur that gives it a mini-fox appearance. Despite its size, this breed is excellent at herding sheep and other animals, thanks to its smarts and agility.

What Makes Them Unique

One of the most beloved dog breeds, the Corgi has roots in Welsh folklore. It’s said that fairies used them to pull their wagons and herd magical cattle. Even Queen Elizabeth II owned a Corgi named Susan, given to her as a birthday gift from King George. Their mix of cuteness and charm wins hearts everywhere.

3. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a Japanese Spitz breed known for its strong resemblance to a fox. These dogs are affectionate and loyal to their family but are often reserved around strangers, making them both loving and independent.

What Makes Them Unique

Shibas are smart and need mental engagement to stay happy. They enjoy exercise and outdoor time but won’t mind skipping a day here and there. Their double coat, perky ears, and curled tail add to their fox-like charm. They are strong and healthy pets, full of energy and intelligence.

4. Korean Jindo

The Korean Jindo is a lesser-known spitz breed that originated from the Jindo Islands in South Korea. With their narrow muzzles and pointed ears, they give off a strong fox-like vibe, especially when they have reddish-brown coats.

What Makes Them Unique

Jindos are medium in size and known for being smart and loyal. Their other coat colors include white, black, and tan. If you’re seeking a watchful and energetic companion, this breed is for you. However, they need early socialization to get along with other dogs, as they can be territorial and bark a lot.

5. Schipperke

The Schipperke is a small Belgian dog with a sharp face, pointy ears, and a fluffy coat. Though tiny, they are bold and full of personality, often surprising people with their fox-like features and energetic behavior.

What Makes Them Unique

These dogs grow to just about 10–13 inches and weigh between 10–16 pounds. Despite their size, they are known as “little captains,” having worked on boats in the past. They’re still water-friendly today and make great companions for people who enjoy boating or fishing.

6. Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is often called a snow angel because of its fluffy white coat and sweet, fox-like face. Bred in Japan by mixing various spitz breeds, these dogs are adorable and easy to love.

What Makes Them Unique

Their calm and friendly nature makes them great pets for apartment living. They get along well with other pets, including cats and dogs. However, they shed a lot and are not suitable for people with allergies. If you’re okay with some extra grooming, they’ll be a loving family member.

7. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are known for their fluffy coats and fox-like faces. Their small size, sharp ears, and expressive eyes make them one of the most adorable dogs around. Despite their toy-like look, they are full of energy and spirit.

What Makes Them Unique

Pomeranians are very vocal and love to express themselves with barks and body language. Their fluffy tails often tell how they feel—high and wagging when happy, or tucked when sad. They love being part of family life and thrive on interaction and attention.

8. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz is a bright and active dog with red or golden fur that gives it a fox-like look. They enjoy being around active people and can get restless if they don’t get enough playtime or outdoor fun.

What Makes Them Unique

These dogs are known for their barking and were once used to track birds, earning the nickname “barking bird dogs.” Their strong voice and alert nature make them excellent watchdogs, but they do best in homes where they can stay busy and entertained.

9. Akita

The Akita is a large and powerful Japanese breed often called the “silent hunter.” While they have a fox-like face, they are much larger and tougher than most other breeds on this list. They are not easy to train but form strong bonds with their family.

What Makes Them Unique

Akitas are known for following their owners around and staying close. While they don’t easily accept strangers or new pets, they are loyal to the core. In Japan, they symbolize safety and are often gifted as statues to families with newborns. Their thick coats are great for cold weather but shed heavily in warm months.

Last Thought

If you adore foxes but want the companionship and loyalty of a dog, these fox-like breeds are perfect for you. They come in all shapes and sizes but share common features—pointy ears, fluffy tails, and clever personalities. Whether you prefer a vocal pet like the Finnish Spitz or a quiet guardian like the Akita, there’s a fox-like dog out there waiting to become your best friend.

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