The Best Dog Breeds That Look Like Foxes

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Updated 02/24/20

Ever spot what you thought was a fox, but it turned out to be your neighbor’s dog? It’s no surprise that some dog breeds are often confused with foxes, as today's dogs descended from wolves, a close fox relative. But unlike their wild cousins, dogs have evolved to understand and communicate with humans. If you're looking for a dog with a slightly more wild appearance, here are 10 breeds that resemble foxes.

Tip

Many dogs that look like foxes are spitz breeds. They tend to be intelligent, active, and high shedders.

Fox Species That Can Be Companion Animals

01 of 10

Shiba Inu

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Originally bred for hunting, the shiba inu is a spitz breed of Japan. These intelligent, independent dogs are known to be a challenge to train and can develop issues, including possessiveness and aggression. But they're also an affectionate, loyal breed with their families, though they might be wary of strangers.

Breed Overview

Height: 14 to 17 inches

Weight: 17 to 23 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Curled tail; thick double coat; colors include black and tan, cream, and red
02 of 10

Akita

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Often referred to as a "silent hunter," the Akita is the largest Japanese spitz breed. They're quiet, temperamental dogs that can be difficult to train. But they also tend to be fiercely loyal and have long served as guard and hunting dogs. As a high-energy breed, Akitas require rigorous daily exercise.

Breed Overview

Height: 24 to 28 inches

Weight: 70 to 130 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Triangular head; curled tail; thick double coat; colors include black, fawn, red, and more
03 of 10

American Eskimo

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The American Eskimo dog looks quite similar to the snowy white Arctic fox. These dogs tend to be affectionate, as well as loyal and protective watchdogs for their families. They also love to play outdoors, even in cold weather. Note that their heavy coats shed a fair amount and require diligent grooming.

Breed Overview

Height: 9 to 19 inches

Weight: 6 to 35 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; medium-length double coat; colors include white or white and biscuit
04 of 10

Schipperke

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The independent, spunky schipperke looks like a small black fox. While these dogs are usually very loyal and loving, they're extremely prone to barking. They love to be involved in daily activities, especially outdoor exercise, with their families. But they will quickly take off to chase a squirrel or other wildlife.

Breed Overview

Height: 10 to 13 inches

Weight: 10 to 16 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Tailless; black coat of several lengths; can have white markings

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05 of 10

Samoyed

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The Samoyed is another spitz breed, and it originated in the Siberian area of Russia. These strong and intelligent dogs were historically bred to pull sledges on polar expeditions. But today, they are primarily kept as affectionate and playful family pets, though their instincts to chase small animals still remain.

Breed Overview

Height: 19 to 24 inches

Weight: 35 to 65 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; thick double coat; colors include white, cream, and biscuit
06 of 10

Finnish Spitz

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Often called the "barking bird" dog, the Finnish spitz is a highly energetic breed that requires a significant amount of daily exercise for both its physical and mental well-being. These dogs can make loving family pets. But they are prone to barking out of boredom when their exercise needs aren't met.

Breed Overview

Height: 16 to 20 inches

Weight: 20 to 33 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Pointed muzzle; upright ears; curled tail; red-gold double coat
07 of 10

Norwegian Elkhound

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The Norwegian elkhound represents both the hound and spitz breeds. It's a playful yet protective dog that makes a loyal pet. But it craves human companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety. Despite its smaller stature, the Norwegian elkhound is an extremely energetic breed that requires rigorous daily exercise.

Breed Overview

Height: 20 to 21 inches

Weight: 48 to 55 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Curled tail; thick coat; colors include black, gray, white, and more
08 of 10

German Spitz

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Also known as the Eskimo spitz, the German spitz makes an exceptional companion because of its friendly and affectionate nature. These dogs tend to be loyal to their families and great with children. They're also an intelligent breed that's quick to learn, but they do require lots of daily exercise.

Breed Overview

Height: 12 to 15 inches

Weight: 24 to 26 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; colors include black, brown, orange, red, and white

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09 of 10

Alaskan Klee Kai

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The Alaskan klee kai looks like a lap-sized husky. These dogs are intelligent and playful, as well as extremely energetic. They're usually loving and loyal with their families, but many are cautious around strangers. Although they're found in an array of colors, the red-and-white version looks strikingly similar to a red fox.

Breed Overview

Height: 13 to 17 inches

Weight: 10 to 15 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Thick double coat; colors include black and white, red and white, and gray and white
10 of 10

Chihuahua

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Many Chihuahuas, especially those with long fur, look strikingly similar to the tiny fennec fox. These dogs tend to bond closely with their favorite humans but might be standoffish with other people and animals. Despite their small size, they need a fair amount of mental and physical exercise to keep them happy.

Breed Overview

Height: 5 to 8 inches

Weight: Up to 6 pounds

Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; smooth or long coat; colors include black, tan, fawn, chocolate, and more