Is it common to have a German Shepherd tail curly or straight? In order to be a purebred German Shepherd, what kind of tail should it have? Why do German Shepherds have curly tails?
These are excellent questions, but there doesn’t appear to be a single, clear answer. Because of the misunderstanding surrounding German Shepherd tails, this article has been written.
A curly tail is acceptable in the German Shepherd breed standard, but this is considered a faulty breed. The tails of most German Shepherds are straight but curved slightly.
Is It Possible to Have a German Shepherd with Curly Tail?
It’s a rare occurrence, but it still does occur. The tails of German shepherds are usually straight, as explained in the previous paragraph.
So why do German shepherd puppies’ tails curl? If you’re looking for a German Shepherd curled tail, you’ll most likely find one from the spitz family.
The fact that this dog’s tail curls over his backside so high suggests that your dog is a crossbreed of some kind.
German Shepherd Tail Description
What sort of tail should a German Shepherd dog have? is the second most often requested question in this region. It is common for dog owners to inquire about their pet’s dog’s breed, as well as its standard.
Typically, the tail of a German shepherd will extend from the croup to at least the lower back’s hock joint (ankle).
The tail should not fly high, but rather hang low and slightly curved, like a sword. Dogs often raise and hold their tails at a greater angle when they are aroused.
For some reason, the tail can also “hook” or sway to the side.
Curly-Tailed German Shepherds Are Rare
Curly tails cause concern for many GSD owners, who fear their dog will lose its purebred status.
The appearance of a “gay tail,” or a curly tail on a German Shepherd, isn’t a reliable indicator of purebreed status.
Having a curled tail does not imply that your GSD is not a purebred. Hair that doesn’t curl over the back is more likely a combination of straight and wavy.
Genes have a big role in shaping the look of your GSD’s body, including any hereditary defects or structural anomalies.
Only a DNA test or certified papers from both parents can prove that your GSD is actually purebred.
SEE ALSO: What to Do if My German Shepherd is Too Friendly
Curly Tails on German Shepherd Puppies
When it comes to “curliness,” the differences between adult and puppy GSD tails are much greater. When a puppy’s ears first “dance” up and down before “settling,” many owners connect this to the adult dog’s posture. This is a frequent blunder.
The posture of certain pups’ tails differs from that of their adult counterparts. A curling or elevated tail is not a guarantee that a GSD puppy will retain this trait as an adult. This is a crucial point to keep in mind.
Tail placements can fluctuate based on the animal’s present state of mind, emotions, and temperament. Tails may be lifted when pups are joyful and lively, but they may be dropped when they are peaceful, resting or feeling worried or scared.
An excessively curled tail that rests high on the back of your German Shepherd puppy, however, is an indication that he was crossbred.
Tips for Taking Care of German Shepherd Tails
Here are some pointers for maintaining a healthy and well-maintained tail on your GSD.
1. Regular Brushing
The need for frequent brushing is well-known among GSD owners. To compound matters, many people pay more attention to the neck and back than to the tail.
It’s equally as important to brush your dog’s tail! Focus on the conclusion for a few additional minutes. Grooming the tail is a simple matter of using a decent slicker brush.
2. Maintaining a Clean Tail is Essential
Make sure to use dog-friendly cleaning wipes but if you don’t have any of those then use baby wipes to clean off your German Shepherd’s tail on a regular basis.
If you don’t have time to take a full bath, this is a convenient alternative. Wiping the tail with a baby wipe will help keep mud, filth, and germs away from your dog.
3. The Hair Doesn’t Need To Be Trimmed
According to legend, the tail hairs of a GSD are exceptionally sensitive. Some dog owners think that the “gay tail,” or curly tail, is the result of the tail hairs dragging on the floor. The GSD’s tail curls upward as a consequence of this sensitivity.
Although it sounds reasonable, there is no scientific proof or extensive investigation to back this notion. It is not suggested to trim or clip the tail of your GSD.
READ MORE: The 411 For First-Time German Shepherd Owners
4. Avoiding Tail Chasing and Biting
In order to avoid problems like hair loss, sensitive skin, wounds, and infections, you should stop your dog from chasing or biting his tail right away.
While redirection training is most likely your best course of action, it will require a lot of patience and consistency from both you and your GSD.
If your German Shepherd dog is chasing or chewing its tail, it might be showing signs of agitation, anxiety, boredom, or anal furunculosis. So be sure to see your veterinarian if you observe a swollen anus.
If you alter your dog’s daily schedule, you may be able to lessen his tail-chasing behavior. Don’t overlook the vehicle’s undercarriage as well. Anal furunculosis, a parasite infection of the vaginal region, may also induce tail biting.
Veterinary treatment is required since this is a chronic and severe condition. Swelling or redness around the anus may be a symptom of an infection.
5. Maintain Consistent Inspection Protocols
On a weekly basis, the tail should be examined and inspected to ensure that it is clear of skin rashes, sores, hair loss, and any other irregularities.
Having a casual appearance and feel in the evenings when your Dog is more relaxed might help you avoid possible problems.
German Shepherd Tail Types
Why do German Shepherd tails curl? A German Shepherd’s every move is an expression of his or her emotions. The movements and the German Shepherd tail positions have the following meanings.
1. Wagging Tail
Negative emotions such as nervousness can be indicated by German Shepherds wagging their tails to the left.
Wagging their tail more to the right indicates that a German Shepherd is experiencing positive emotions, such as excitement or joy upon seeing you or upon engaging in playful activity with you.
It’s a sign of happiness when a GSD is wagging its tail wildly on both sides. It’s a sign of confusion if a GSD is wagging its tail on both sides slowly. When training your dog, be aware of this.
2. Low Hanging Tail
When a German Shepherd Dog’s tail is hanging low, it’s a good indication. As a result, you might expect your dog’s whole demeanor to change.
When a GSD’s tail hangs low, it doesn’t always imply it’s straight down. By examining the base of the tail, you can tell the difference between a low-hanging and a slightly tucked tail.
If the tail is somewhat tucked, it will have a steeper downhill slope than if the tail is low-hanging.
RELATED: Reasons Why German Shepherds Move Their Ears Back
3. Tail In High Position
Many different interpretations can be made of a German Shepherd with its tail raised high. After this point, it’s all your decision as to how you feel about your pet.
• Aggression
• Arousal
• Interest to play
• Desire to breed
For whatever reason, if your GSD has his tail wagging, it’s an indication that he’s interested in something else.
If there are some male dogs around, you should be on the watch for signs of hostility or play. If there are other female dogs in the area, your GSD is more likely to display signs of lust and be ready to mate if you see him become excited.
4. Sudden Stop of the Tail
If your German Shepherd suddenly stops wagging its tail, it’s time for you to pay attention to what’s going on. This is a clear indication that your dog’s emotional state has suddenly shifted in a dramatic way.
Something as simple as a squirrel outside the window could be the cause for the shift. It’s also possible for the German Shepherd to stop wagging its tail in a potentially dangerous situation, especially if it’s in direct contact with a person.
5. Tail is Positioned in the Middle
A German Shepherd’s tail might be confusing if it’s in the center of the back. Fear, arousal, aggressiveness, and play are just a few of the many meanings associated with a high-positioned tail.
Understanding the behavior of a German Shepherd requires an understanding of its surroundings. In this posture, the dog’s tail indicates alertness and an uncertainty about how he wants to be recognized in certain situations.
The fact that a GSD is still evaluating the position and has not yet committed to a response means that you should be aware of the current scenario.
Treatments for German Shepherds Tails Problem
When you’re a dog owner, it’s important to keep an eye on your pet. If you notice any problems with your dog’s tail, such as cuts or excessive hair loss, see your veterinarian right away.
Do not hesitate to check your dog’s skin for infection or irritation if you notice it biting and scratching anus consistently. Grooming your dog should be part of your pet’s daily routine.
Check the animal’s body parts for signs of illness or injury. Take a look at the animal’s head, feet, and tail. Make sure there are no fleas hiding in its coat by thoroughly inspecting it.
LEARN MORE: 12 Reasons Why Your German Shepherd Doesn’t Seem to Listen to You
German Shepherd Curled Tail Meaning
It is not a bad thing if your German Shepherd tails curl. Several GSDs had a genetic defect. The term “gay tail” refers to a curled tail. There is no way to correct this inherited flaw.
Your German Shepherd’s health is unaffected by his “gay tail.” As a result, there are some owners who prefer GSDs with straight tails. German Shepherds are known for their strong and powerful appearance, and a straight tail is a great way to achieve this.
Due to this, owners of GSDs with gay tails frequently choose surgical treatment as a solution. It is not a long-term solution to have your GSD support a surgical procedure to straighten a curled tail.
Even after surgery, puppies of a GSD with a gay tail will have a gay tail as well because it is a genetic trait.
Final Thoughts
The tails of German Shepherds are usually straight, but they do have a slight curve to them, like a saber sword. The AKC considers a slightly curled tail to be a “fault” in the breed, even though it is possible and even common.
Tails that curl over the back of a German Shepherd are a strong indication that the dog is a crossbreed.
The tails of German Shepherds are just as important as the rest of their bodies. It’s a way for them to communicate with their owners, as well as a way to stay stable when they’re swimming or walking.
Owners of German Shepherds may encounter a variety of tail issues, some of which are genetic and some of which are acquired. The health of a GSD’s tail depends on regular visits to the veterinarian.
Having a German Shepherd curly tail, or “gay tail,” is a trait that most GSD owners find unappealing. Curled tails are not a sign that anything is wrong with your GSD, and he or she will be able to lead a full and happy life regardless.
When it comes to German Shepherd tails, what kind is yours? If you have any additional questions, please let us know in the comments. Thank you for taking the time to read this!
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