You know when you see a fox, but when you get closer, you realize it’s your neighbor’s dog? Dogs descended from wolves, which are closely related to foxes. Therefore it’s no surprise that some breeds are frequently mistaken for foxes. In contrast to their savage counterparts, dogs have adapted to communicate with and comprehend their human counterparts. For those who adore the foxy look and want to add a new pet to their family, the list below may be just what you need.

Do you have a specific question about dog breeds that look like foxes? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page. 

Akita

The Akita is Japan’s largest spitz breed and is often characterized as a “quiet hunter.”. It can be tough to educate a quiet, temperamental dog like this one. Guard and hunting dogs have long relied on them for their loyalty and ferocious loyalty. To keep up with their high activity level, Akitas require regular exercise.

Alaskan Klee Kai

As a smaller variant of the Huskie, Alaskan Klee Kais were created in the 1970s. Most kennel clubs recognized them in 1988. They are playful, clever, and highly energetic dogs who enjoy spending time with and being around their family. In general, they’re kind. However, unlike Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Klee Kais are not particularly welcoming of strangers.

In addition to the standard black and white and grey and white, these canines come in red and white as well as pure white. Klee Kaia in red and white are extremely rare and resemble a fox in coloration.

American Eskimo

The American Eskimo dog is a cunning canine looking similar to the white Arctic fox. They’re a lot of fun to be around. But they are also fiercely devoted and protective. Be confident that they will serve as a practical family watchdog if you allow them to live with you.

In cold weather, give your Eskimo lots of time to play outside. Last but not least, give them some double care when it comes to grooming – their coats will be grateful!

Basenji

Basenjis are an ancient breed represented in several Egyptian, Babylonian, and Mesopotamian artifacts. Until the discovery of their hunting prowess by African tribespeople, Basenjis were let to roam the Nile and Congo rivers in the wild. Only in the mid-19th century were these feline-like dogs brought to the United States. They remained genetically unchanged from when they were initially given as gifts to the Egyptian pharaohs.

Despite their distant and independent demeanor, Basenjis can be affectionate toward their owners and children. However, they’re quite clean by nature, and their great energy and sharp intelligence frequently bring them into trouble. To keep them occupied and stimulated, kids require a lot of physical activity. These elegant canines can reach a height of 16 to 17 inches and a weight of 24 pounds. One of the few dogs that appear like foxes in the United States is also one of the less prevalent breeds.

Canaan Dog

Even though no one knows for sure how old the Canaan dog breed is, drawings of the breed decorate tombs over 4,000 years old. They initially aided the Israelites in cattle management and protection. During the Roman conquest of Judea and Samaria in 70 AD, the Canaanite dogs were driven from their native land and settled in the Negev Desert, where they remained wild until the turn of the 20th century.

When the State of Israel was established hundreds of years later, it needed guards for the settlements and K-9s for the army. Dr. Rudolphina Menzel, an Austrian cynologist, proposed training the dogs. According to her, they were qualified for the job because of their capacity to survive in such a harsh environment.

Despite their wild origins, the Canaan dogs surprised everyone by being intelligent and easy to teach. After World War II, they were used as guide dogs for the blind and messengers and landmine detectors. To this day, Canaan dogs remain intelligent, self-assured, and watchful, making them great watchdogs and service dogs.

They can reach a height of 24 inches and a weight of 55 pounds, respectively, in the Canaan dog breed. Their slim physique has unmistakable fox-like characteristics with bushy tails, almond-shaped eyes, and pointed ears.

Chihuahua

The long-haired Chihuahua is a solid contender for the title of best fox lookalike, even though it isn’t the first breed that comes to mind.

Even though these tiny canines are known for their stubbornness, they may be wonderful pets with proper training and socialization. While their diminutive stature means they’re far from frightening, a Chihuahua will still try to preserve their area whenever feasible.

Finnish Spitz

As the Barking Bird dog, this breed’s name shows its preferred pastime: barking at birds.

The Finnish Spitz has a remarkable amount of mental and physical energy when it comes to exercise needs. Otherwise – it will most probably pass the time and boredom by barking.

These fox-like dog breeds will blow your mind!

German Spitz

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the German Spitz is related to some other breeds on our list because of its attractive, fox-like features. The red-coated German Spitz has the most resemblance to a classic fox, despite the breed coming in many shades of red.

Even though this dog is easy to teach and adores its family, they are wary of strangers. Because the breed tends to bark, proper training is essential if you want to keep it from becoming a nuisance. 

 Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog, a Spitz-type dog, is a particularly healthy breed. The Icelandic Sheepdog and the Welsh Corgi share a common progenitor, the Icelandic Sheepdog.

This breed requires frequent walks and physical activity to keep them healthy and happy. These dogs’ “home-alone anxiety” prevents them from being left alone. In general, Icelandic Sheepdogs are friendly, but they must be socialized early. Fox-like features include upward-facing trapezoidal ears and red fur with white and brown patches.

Indian Spitz

One of the most intelligent dog breeds is the Indian Spitz. Small or medium-sized Indian domestic dogs are the breeds of choice. The Indian subcontinent’s severe climate is ideal for these dogs, which are naturally active, alert, and healthy.

The Indian Spitz bears a striking resemblance to the German Spitz in terms of looks. They are intelligent dogs who enjoy spending time with children and their families, but they do not like other pets. No major kennel group currently recognizes Indian Spitz. However, the Kennel Club of India has designated them a distinct Indian breed.

Japanese Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is Japan’s tiniest Spitz. They bear a striking resemblance to the Akita Inu, a Japanese dog breed. Originally bred for hunting, Shiba Inus is one of the few remaining ancient dog breeds.

They are also one of the most intelligent breeds. They are affectionate, friendly, and easy to train. Children and other pets can be left alone with these dogs, and they show no aggression toward visitors or strangers.

Japanese Spitz

A Japanese Spitz is an excellent apartment dog because of its alert demeanor and friendly demeanor. As a result of their silky coat, grooming is less of a hassle. And they look a bit like artic foxes. 

They are medium-sized dogs that can reach a height of 15 inches. It is a joy to have a pet like this in your life. They are both daring and devoted. They’ll brighten your day. They smile frequently, so be ready to grab your phone and hurry to the camera.

Jindo

Korean breed Jindo looks like a fox-and-wolf hybrid, although it isn’t exactly like either animal. Guarding, hunting, and being a general friend are strengths of this breed, but its independence sets it apart from other well-known dogs.

However, in its native South Korea, the Jindo is highly regarded. The Jindo wants a one-on-one relationship with a single person rather than a large family.

Keeshond

Like Pomeranians and Samoyeds, this breed is closely related. It’s not uncommon for Keeshonds to be apprehensive about being left alone for an extended amount of time. A daily run or stroll is a must; it’s even better if the dog’s owner joins in the fun. Find out how long you can leave your dog alone at home without worrying.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers are the only canines on this list that were bred to look like foxes. They have a flowing tail, red fur, and white markings to look like foxes. They are more relaxed and even enthralled by this. Tollers are excellent at attracting prey because of this. Despite their small size and weight (up to 50 pounds), these dogs are excellent retrievers.

Tollers are a constant source of energy and inspiration and a source of love, confidence, and passion. They require a lot of physical activity to be happy. Since this is the case, these dogs have a wide range of applications in the workplace and dog sports.

Papillon

A fox-faced toy breed from France isn’t the sort to sit on your lap all day but rather a playful one who likes to walk about and discover new things to do. The name Papillon translates to “butterfly” in French, which helps to explain this dog’s restless nature.

The Papillon is a very bright and devoted dog that enjoys receiving attention and making its owner happy.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh corgis are one of the most preferred dog breeds for herding at slightly over a foot tall at the shoulders. Despite their diminutive stature, these lovable, intelligent canines are as hardworking as pleasant.

Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved Pembroke Welsh corgis were first brought to Wales by Flemish master weavers. Despite their resemblance to the Cardigan Welsh corgi, these herding dogs date back to 1107 AD and are different.

Pomeranian Spitz

Look at them, and you’ll see that the Pomeranian Spitz is descended from enormous sled dogs! They are beloved by dog owners because they desire to be a part of a family. It doesn’t take long for you to fall in love with these tiny canines, which can weigh between 3 and 7 pounds each.

Pomeranian dogs don’t require a lot of space because their size isn’t an issue. Even in cramped quarters, they thrive. Even so, it doesn’t indicate that you’ll be able to bring them under control without exhausting them. So, every day, take them outside to investigate their surroundings.

Beginners should also be aware that Pomeranians are wary of strangers. When they see someone they don’t know, expect them to start barking. Our recommendation is to start training them as soon as possible.

Schipperke

Schipperkes are much smaller than they appear, with a height of 13 inches and a weight of no more than 16 pounds at most. Ship crews employed them to catch rats, which led to the moniker Schipperke, which translates to “little captain” in Flemish. Dogs like this one are courageous, loyal, and wonderful guard dogs. Make sure you don’t miss out on any more unique dog breeds that you’ll want to bring home right now.

Samoyeds

Samoyeds are another canine breed that resembles foxes, and they appear a lot like Arctic foxes from the outside. Russia and Siberia are their origins. They’re also one of the oldest breeds. Smileys have a sunny disposition, so they are sometimes known as such. For the next 12-13 years, these dogs will be by your side.

In addition, Samoyeds are excellent pets for families. As long as you can provide it the proper socialization training from an early age, it’ll be fine with other pets.

Shiba Inu

One of the best-known foxy dogs is the Shiba Inu. They’re often compared to their red-haired cousins. It’s well-known that Shiba Inus have a cat-like demeanor. Because of their meticulous grooming, independence, and loyalty, the Inu is Japan’s most popular domestic dog breed. Folklore says that humans and foxes coexisted in Ancient Japan, which led to the creation of the kitsune. One of the reasons the Shiba Inu is so well-liked in Japan is its ability to take the form of a fox/human hybrid monster, the kitsune!

Volpino Italiano

Vulnerable? You’d be hard-pressed to find another canine with a moniker like “Italian Fox.” Despite their diminutive stature, these dogs take their role as guardians very seriously. Intruders will be alerted even if they are too small to take on, because they will be a warning to the larger dogs. They’ll keep you entertained with their antics when they’re off the clock. Their devotion to loved ones is unwavering.

It’s unfortunate that the Italiano breed nearly died out in 1965. Concentrated conservation efforts saved the world’s surviving five dogs from extinction. They had grown to more than 2,000 by 2006, though. The Volpinos, originally from Italy, grew in popularity as breeding programs spread throughout the globe. US, UK, and Scandinavia were among them.

Credits: thanks for the cover photo to Canva.

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