The tufted deer is a fairly dainty deer, named after the tuft of long, blackish-brown hair growing from the forehead. The antlers of male tufted deer are diminutive spikes, rarely protruding beyond the distinctive tuft of hair. Its body is a deep chocolate brown in colour on the upperparts, white below, with the coat composed of coarse, almost spine-like hairs, which give the tufted deer a somewhat shaggy appearance. The head and neck are grey, with white markings highlighting the tips of the ears. The underside of the tail is also white and can be seen as the deer holds its tail up as it runs. Both male and female tufted deer have large, stout upper canines, with those of the male forming tusks up to 2.5 centimetres long.