Borzoi Tails and Details

Figure 17. Normal tail set and standing carriage

On to tails...

The Standard describes the tail as "long", but it does not say how long. Consider the absolute minimum to be to the point of hock but most are much longer. It is set on low, a continuation of the also unspecified pelvic angle and is an extension of the descending curve of the topline. It is carried low, hanging between the legs like a
horse while standing, slightly out behind while walking and carried in a graceful low curve when trotting.

In spite of the common comparison the tail is NOT a rudder. A rudder is a mechanism that causes a change of direction. The tail does not do that. A tail IS used for balance. In running, it switches left for right turns, switches right for left turns, comes up when dog is slowing, and drops down on acceleration. It spins in circles when the hound is at an easy lope, and is a mood indicator.

Figure 18. a. gay tail; b. curled tail; c. ring tail

Common tail faults are a ring in the end of the tail, which reduces the visible length, a gay tail that is carried higher than the topline, and a curly tail, which spoils the graceful flow of the outline. Tail faults are hard to breed out. The long sweeping tail is a point of beauty and breed type more than pure function.