10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Foxes

Historically bred for hunting, the Shiba Inu is a dog of Japanese origin that belongs to the "Spitz" breed of Japan. An independent and intelligent breed, these dogs are known to be a challenge to train, and can develop issues ranging from possessiveness to aggression. The Shiba Inu has proven to be an extremely fast dog when it comes to chasing prey like small animals.

The Shiba Inu is an affectionate, loyal breed with its family, but they may not always be friendly with other people or pets, and they have a tendency to be particularly possessive when it comes to their food and toys. The smallest of all the Japanese breeds, this high-energy dog requires daily walks—but always on leash, as the Shiba Inu won't hesitate to chase any small animal that is unlucky enough to cross his path.

Often referred to as a "silent hunter," the Akita is the largest of the Japanese Spitz breeds. It's a quiet yet temperamental dog that also isn't always the easiest to train, but is known to be a fiercely loyal breed that has long served as faithful watchdogs and hunting dogs.

Like many of the dogs that resemble foxes, the Akita will require daily rigorous exercise. Both the Japanese and American Akita are both varieties of the same breed, but their colors will vary.

This beautiful white dog breed is one of the more affectionate and friendly fox-resembling dog breeds. The American Eskimo is also known to be a protective, loyal watchdog for families that loves nothing more than to play outdoors, though its heavy coat sheds and will require diligent maintenance.

Another highly active breed, the Schipperke is independent and spunky and has a tendency to bark a lot. Originally bred in Belgium, the Schipperke is also known as "the Little Captain."

This dog looks like a small black fox; though it's very loyal and loving, the Schipperke is extremely prone to barking. This breed loves to be involved in daily activity and outdoor exercise with its family, but be aware that the Schipperke is another breed that is likely to take off in pursuit of a squirrel, raccoon, or other wildlife.

The Samoyed is yet another Spitz breed, but its origins are from the Siberian area of Russia. These strong, intelligent dogs were historically bred to pull sledges on polar expeditions, but today they make affectionate, playful family pets. The Samoyed is also prone to chase small animals.

Often called the "Barking Bird" dog, the Finnish Spitz is a highly energetic, active breed that requires a significant amount of daily exercise for both its physical and mental well-being. Though the Finnish Spitz can make a loving family pet, the breed is prone to barking out of boredom when its rigorous exercise meets are not being met.

The Norwegian Elkhound represents both the hound breeds and Spitz breeds. It's a playful yet protective breed that makes for loyal family pet, though this breed craves human companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety and other behavioral issues when left alone for long periods of time. Despite its smaller stature, the Norwegian Elkhound is an extremely energetic breed that requires rigorous daily exercise.

Also known as the Eskimo Spitz, this breed makes an exceptional companion because of its friendly, affectionate nature; it's also loyal to its family and great with children. The German Spitz is an excellent watchdog as well as an intelligent breed that's quick to learn, but will also require a great deal of exercise.

A black dog that closely resembles a fox, the Pulin was historically bred as a herding dog, and today remains a reliable working and herding dog. The breed originates from the region of Vojvodina in Serbia; while it makes a loving and loyal pet, the Pulin is another breed that requires extensive exercise for both its physical and mental health.

The Alaskan Klee Kai breed originated in the 1970s as a smaller, lap-sized version of the Husky. This breed is intelligent and playful, as well as extremely energetic. This breed makes wonderful family pets because they are loving and loyal with their family, however they are far more cautious around people they don't know. Though these dogs can be found in an array of different colors, the rare red and white Alaskan Klee Kai looks strikingly similar to a red fox.