Dog Tails
Ever wondered why your dog’s tail looks so much different from other dogs and why their tails evolved differently? Well, you are in luck. We will be diving into the evolutionary benefits of each type of tail and why tails are crucial to a dog’s survival!
Wolves
Wolves and dogs diverged between 20,000-40,000 years ago and many traits that passed down from wolves to dogs are still present today, such as the tail. Both species use their tails to convey mood, expression, communication, and body language.
DIfferent Types of Tails
Each breed has a unique tail. Types of tails we will go over include the curled tail, corkscrewed tail, bobtail, long tails, fluffy tails, and gay tail. The variety of tails found in dogs is primarily caused by evolution (thanks to artificial selection).
What gives a Tail its Shape
A tail’s shape is caused by vertebrae that is either fused or wedge-shaped (a medical term for this is called the hemivertebrae which only affects the tail). Genetics also play a role in determining the tail’s design.
Curled Tails
Sled dogs such as the Alaskan Husky usually have curled tails. Their tails are curled to help keep the dog’s tail out of the way of other dogs when running as a team. Most dog breeds that share curled tails are either sled dogs or have it for display purposes.
Corkscrewed Tail
Pugs are a perfect example of the corkscrew tail. This tail type is caused by an unusual physical trait due to a hereditary conformation defect. The defect results in the spine to be partially twisted or fused in an unusual position which results in the corkscrewed tail. Dogs breeds with this type of tail have it mainly for display purposes.
Bobtail
Not all dogs have a proper tail. Meet the bobtail. This “tail” is not a true tail but rather a little nub of fatty tissue. These tails can be seen in some Australian Shepherds and Corgis. The reason why these dogs have no tail are because centuries ago, people believed that dogs with that trait will reduce the chances of the dog getting rabies, will strengthen the back, will increase speed, and will help prevent injuries. Dogs with these tails are more likely to be shepherding or hunting dogs.
Long Tails
Dogs such as the German Shepherd possess long tails. This is the most unmodified tail in the process of domesticating wolves. Dogs with long tails are able to retain body heat better, have better communication, and better balance.
Fluffy Tail
The fluffy tail as the name suggests, is exactly what it is -fluffy. This type of tail is supposed to help the dog look more friendly and less aggressive which helped dog breeders (especially centuries ago) make money. These tails make the dog look more domesticated as seen by the pomeranian.
Gay Tail
A gay tail is a tail that is held horizontally, thick, with a slight curve, and has a white tuft of fur at its tip. An example of a breed that has this type of tail is the Beagle. The gay tail enhances communication with other pack members and can help serve as a warning signal for predators. Although this is not a dog, white tailed deers have a “gay tail” as well. These deers, when sensing danger, will lift up their tails which expose the white coloring underneath. This serves as a warning flag since the rest of the deer’s body is mainly brown which makes it easier for other deer to spot. From this, we can conclude that this trait is not only limited to dogs, but also other multicellular organisms for the purpose of enhancing communication. Dogs that have these tails are more likely to be bred for hunting.
Thank you for reading on why different dog breeds have different types of tails. I hope that you found something new today that can help you understand your dog better as well as their evolutionary history! Be sure to wash your hands and wear a mask. I’ll see you next time!
Citations:
[1] “Dog Tail Length, Shape, Position Can Indicate Dog Breed.” Dog's Best Life, 26 May 2020, dogsbestlife.com/dog-breeds/dog-tail-size-shape/.
[2] “Natural Bobtail.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 Apr. 2020, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_bobtail.
[3] Team, Ben. “Why Do Dogs Have Tails? The Origins Behind Your Dog's Behind!” K9 Of Mine, K9 Of Mine, 2 Apr. 2019, www.k9ofmine.com/why-do-dogs-have-tails/.