10 Fox Like Dogs – Dogs That Look Like Foxes

Reviewed By Tom •  Updated: 03/22/21 •  10 min read
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There are some dog breeds out there that look like foxes. Whether it is their red and beige fur, their long noses or the way they move, some pups could be mistaken for wild foxes when it is dark outside. This should not be surprising since dogs are descendants of wolves, which are close relatives to the fox.

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Let’s take a look at 10 dog breeds that look just like foxes!

1. Shiba Inu

First on our list is the Shiba Inu. This Japanese Spitz breed is the smallest of the group and definitely resembles a stealthy fox. This foxy breed was originally used for hunting small game and on occasion, they even hunted wild boar. This is a popular Japanese breed that has prick ears, as well as squinty eyes to resemble a fox. The personality of the Shiba Inu is an interesting one. This breed can be bold and alert, with intelligence that makes them a good companion for training. Yet, some owners say they are strong-willing. So, they require an owner that is ready to take charge. They are very athletic, with speed and movement that makes them move around like a fox. With lots of training and socialization, this pooch can be a good family dog.

One of the most important things is to socialize your Shiba Inu pup from a young age. Due to other fiery and bold personality, they could become dog-aggressive. So, if they are introduced to other canines from a young age, they can make furry friends for life. Training off leash will also be necessary due to their natural hunting instinct.

2. Finnish Spitz

It is definitely the color of the Finnish Spitz that reminds us of a fox! This pooch was also a hunter and their physical capabilities meant they were good at catching small and large game. We are talking about everything from squirrels to bears. Of course, having these instincts mean this is a dog breed that benefits from having a job in their everyday life in order to stay happy. This can be anything from playing fetch to learning new tricks, something that is going to provide them with a purpose. A combination of regular exercise and mental stimulation is necessary for the Finnish Spitz.

Did you know that the Finnish Spitz is the national dog of Finland? This active pooch makes a good companion if you love to be outdoors. Always be aware that this breed as the need to bark. It may take a lot of training for them and this might not be enough to change their ways. They are slow to mature and they can be very playful. This means they also need an authoritative pack leader that they can follow and respect. The Finnish Spitz can be rebellious and you will have to be strict in your training approach.

3. Akita Inu

Another member of the Japanese Spitz breeds looks like a fox. This is the Akita Inu, which is often referred to as the Great Japanese dog. This is the biggest from the family and used to be called the silent hunter due to its hunting skills against boar, deer and black bears. This was a breed that was also used for guarding. Indeed, this is a big and powerful dog and this means that they can protect their family. They are especially loyal towards their owners and have courage that a lot of other dogs do not have.

Due to their size and stubbornness, this is not a fox dog for first-time owners. They do require a lot of training and socialization with people and pooches from a young age. Of course, when you dedicate time and patience to the Akita Inu, they are a very rewarding and loving furry friend.

They will also need good exercise and a yard to run around in. Otherwise, they may become destructive like other breeds do.

4. Pomeranian Spitz

The tan colors and abundance of fur means that the Pomeranian Spitz reminds just of a small fox. Did you know that this small and cute pooch is actually descended from large sled dogs? While it can be hard to believe, the foxy Pomeranian is a dog with a lot of ability and they love to be part of the family. They weigh around 3 to 7 pounds but have a huge personality that you cannot help but laugh at. Pomeranians are notorious for being feisty.

The Pomeranian is a good companion to have if you live in an apartment without a yard. But they do have a lot of energy and daily walks are beneficial to keep them happy. They love to explore new places and take in the different smells. One thing to realize is that this small pooch can be suspicious of strangers. They may even bark. This means that training from an early age will be good. They can also be difficult to house train and this will take some time to master.

5. Schipperke

Have you ever heard of a Schipperke? This is not a common breed that you see every day. In this sense, they have a lot in common with foxes, as well as the pricked ears! This pooch is often called the little black devil due to their dark fur and small size. But this dog has also gained this nickname because they can be feisty and have a big personality. While they are loving towards their owners, they can have a mind of their own sometimes and you will have to be a strong pack leader.

The Schipperke loves to be involved with the family on a daily basis. For a small dog, they are very protective and may not be the warmest pups towards strangers that enter the home. You do not have to worry about a lot of shedding and this only happens once or twice a year. They are active dogs and will regular walks and playtime during the day. This is going to keep them calm in the home and ensure the best behavior.

6. Norwegian Elkhound

We cannot talk about foxes and not mention the Norwegian Elkhound. At first, you may think this pooch is too big to resemble a fox. But we think it’s the face shape and fur. This big pooch has an abundance of energy that also reminds us of a wild fox and they are known for their fun personality. This big pup also loves their pack and if you are lucky to call a Norwegian Elkhound family, you will have a great time.

This breed is known for independent thinking. They will be able to grasp basic training but they may not win at obedience. But if you have a treat this can make this pooch pay attention! They do have dominant personalities, which mean that training and socialization from an early age will be important. You must establish yourself as the leader of the pack or they will be able to take over. Do not forget that the Norwegian Elkhound loves a lot of exercise. This means regular, long walks to keep them happy and healthy.

7. American Eskimo Dog

Think about an arctic fox. Now imagine the American Eskimo dog. Pretty similar, right? It is definitely the fur, with its flowing white locks. Indeed, the American Eskimo dog is often referred to as a beautiful dog and this is due to their coat and sweet nature. This pooch is part of the Spitz family and they love to be part of the family and have fun. The American Eskimo dog is a small companion, weighing up to 30 pounds.

Training is a must from a young age. They are known to be free thinkers and if you do not establish training, they may be the star of the show. They also love to chew, so having appropriate dog toys will be important. The American Eskimo dog loves to be busy and being part of an active family is preferable. You can take them on hikes and for play sessions at the park. After a long day, they will cuddle up with you on the sofa.

They love their owners and this can mean you need to tackle separation anxiety. But one thing’s for sure, you will always have fun with a small and excitable American Eskimo dog!

8. Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small and energetic pooch with a personality that reminds us of playful foxes. This pup often referred to as a smaller type of Siberian Husky and they are an intelligent breed that thrives on new experiences and learning new skills. They are high energy and owners should be prepared to walk them every day and hike on a regular basis. This is going to provide them with the physical exercise they need to be happy during the day.

The Alaskan Klee Kai still makes a good companion dog to have around the home. They are affectionate and like to be with their pack. They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club and you may not see a lot in the streets. This can mean you can stand out with your Alaskan Klee Kai. It is important to socialize your pooch from a young age. They can be wary of strangers. But this also makes them good watch dogs and they are able to guard the home. They also have a high prey drive and this means they might not be suited for homes that have other animals. This can include rabbits or cats.

9. Samoyed

Next on the list is the Samoyed, which reminds us of a winter white fox with all their fur. Indeed, this breed is perfect for colder climates and they were originally used for hauling sledges and herding reindeer. They also make great companions and they loved spending time with Samoyed people. This means they can make great family pets.

It is important to remember this is a working dog breed. They benefit from having a purpose, whether this is pack hiking or tracking. This is not a dog breed that likes to sit around and be a lap dog. Whether it is running around the yard or playing with a ball, they are happiest when they are active. They will require some training as Samoyeds can be strong willed. This can take a while but with some perseverance, you can teach your canine new things. But they are a rewarding pup to have because they are also gentle and loving. You will have some grooming to do due to their fluffy coats. Regular brushing is necessary to avoid tangling and matting. They will also shed their white hair and this is something to be aware of. But their coat is beautiful when it is shining and clean.

10. Korean Jindo Dog

Last but not least on our list of dogs that look like foxes is the Korean Jindo Dog. This is a pooch from South Korea and this breed has become family because they are so loyal to their owners. Originally, they were used for hunting, but they have a lot of intelligence and are an adaptive breed. They can be good at agility and love to learn new tricks.

If you are an active family, the Korean Jindo Dog will fit right in. They love to be out and about exploring new places. They do need a lot of exercise and benefit from keeping busy. But when they are in their home, they are normally quiet and loving companions. If you have a yard, it is best to have a high fence. They can jump and if they see something interesting, they will not hesitate to investigate. Socialization from an early age is key with other animals and strangers. It is best not to leave Korean Jindo Dogs alone for long periods of time, as they could become destructive. This is particularly true if their needs are not met, such as playtime and exercise every day.

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Tom

Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!

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