shiba inu's tails

[iceman8327]

does anyone know why the shiba's tail is curley? I think it has something to do with the fact they were snow dog in japan but Im not for sure

[Moo]

Lots of dogs are curly tailed. I'm not sure why, but I'm sure the reasons are variable. Not all curly-tailed dogs are snow dogs.

[Deb's Tiny Dogs]

Originally Posted by iceman8327

does anyone know why the shiba's tail is curley? I think it has something to do with the fact they were snow dog in japan but Im not for sure

My Shiba's tail was curly because it made him incredibly cute, which he needed to avoid get booted to a new home because I couldn't housebreak him! He was the most stubborn dog I've ever owned by a mile.

[iceman8327]

I need answers people. Help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[SouthernWoman]

The logical reasons are that Shiba Inus are part of the spitz family if I remember right and have a tail curled over the back is a trait of that "family" of dog. Wolves have similar tails, so it is considered a "primitive" feature.

I believe there are multiple reasons why spitzes have tails that curl and are held over the back. This are some of the ones I know of and have heard.

One is a tail held that way naturally can make dominance and submissive signals very clearly, until say a dog with a short tail or one with a long, stiff tail. Curly tail is flexible in mulitple positions and allows other dogs to clearly read what the tail is "saying".

Two, it is good for cold weather. The curl keeps the tail close to the body and itself, which helps with warmth and avoiding frostbite. Another is that when the dog lays down, the naturally curly tail wraps nicely around the body and over the nose for protection against cold, wind, and snow.

Three, a curled tail is practical for hunting. The tail is held curled over the body and curled tight. With the tail up there, other members of the pack can see it clearly for signals and also where the dog is. Also, it is less likely to get injured or caught in something when the dog is running down prey. Finally, then they finally catch the prey, the tail being held up and close helps to prevent it from being injured in the fight to kill the animal (i.e. - it won't get stepped on or bitten by the animal as easily).

Fourth, it is also useful in a hunting dog from a human standpoint. That high, curly tail is easily spotted over grass and bushes so the hunter can track their dogs far easier than if the dog was docked or had a lot, smooth tail, which might look like a branch or be hard to see through brush.

Does that help you some, iceman8327?

[Moo]

Originally Posted by iceman8327

I need answers people. Help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why is it so crucial to have the information?