9 Dogs That Look Like a Fox (and May Even Act Like One, Too)

With their angular features, bushy tails, and red-hued coats, some dog breeds look like they belong in a fox’s den! These furry friends share many physical traits with their wild fox counterparts—but do they also share a personality?  

Discover 9 domestic dogs that look like foxes and find out whether their temperaments match their cunning looks. 

Small Dogs That Look Like Foxes 

#1: Pomeranian 

A pint-sized Pomeranian may not be the first dog that comes to mind when you think of a fox, but there are similarities underneath all that fur! This breed has small, triangular ears and a muzzle that narrows toward a button nose. Bred for companionship, these playful pups make impressive service dogs and have a friendly temperament—unlike their wild cousins. 

#2: Papillon   

Named after the French word for “butterfly,” the Papillon is a captivating dog that looks like a fox! They have alert, wing-shaped ears and darker markings around their brown or hazel eyes that create a foxlike “mask.” This charming breed also shares the fox’s intelligence, helping them excel in dog sports.  

#3: Schipperke 

Historically bred to help control rodent populations on boats, the energetic and mischievous Schipperke shares the fox’s instinct to hunt small prey. These lovable companions also have the fox’s bushy tail and sharp facial features. Although they often sport a jet-black coat, Schipperkes can come in a variety of colors, including red, making them one of the small dogs that look like foxes. 

Medium Dogs That Look Like Foxes 

#1: Shiba Inu 

With their charming auburn coat and curious nature, the Shiba Inu mirrors the fox’s profile not only in looks, but personality! This medium-sized breed is a popular dog that looks like a fox and is known for their strong independence. But beneath their reserved exterior lies a silly and playful companion, making them a perfect fit for pet parents who appreciate the breed’s special personality. 

#2: Finnish Spitz 

They may look wild, but this medium-sized dog that looks like a fox loves companionship and affection—unlike the smaller, more independent fox! The Finnish Spitz’s fiery-colored coat enhances their foxlike facial features. Their proud stance also mirrors the fox’s constant vigilance, making it easy to read this dog’s body language! 

#3: Canaan  

The Canaan is a highly athletic breed with quick wit to match! Their foxlike features shine through their inquisitive almond-shaped eyes and angular muzzle. While the rare Canaan comes in many colors and patterns, their most common coat has a reddish-brown tone, much like the color of their native environment: the desert. 

Large Dogs That Look Like Foxes 

#1: Akita 

While the Akita is undeniably much larger than a fox, you may be surprised to find out how many traits these canines share! The calm and composed Akita was bred to hunt, giving them a crafty intelligence like the fox. Though the two may not share the distinctly bushy tail, their ears and muzzle resemble that of a fox. 

#2: Samoyed 

If you look beyond the dazzling white coat and charming smile, the Samoyed is another example of large dogs that look like foxes! Some even sport brown around the ears and eyes, which can resemble the fox’s mask-like markings. Also like the fox, the Samoyed’s thick fur coat helps them thrive in cold environments. Their powerful bark, however, is far from a fox’s yip! The Samoyed is a quick breed, making them great watchdogs.  

#3: Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound embodies the spirit of the forest with their neutral-toned coat and adaptable temperament. With a pointed snout and alert ears, this wild-looking large dog breed doesn’t resemble a fox in color but shares their subtly triangular features. They also may have a strong prey drive like the crafty fox. 

Furry Friends with Foxlike Flair 

These dog breeds share the fox’s slick cuteness—and some even share their strong independence & wit—but they are loving companions just like any other dog. With proper socialization and training, these foxlike pups are a wonderful addition to any home. 

Did any of these domestic dog breeds that look like foxes catch your eye? Check out 11 Dogs That Look Like Wolves (& Their History) to explore more dog breeds with a touch of the wild!