The presence of long tails in Boston Terriers, while less common than the standard screw tail, is a naturally occurring trait determined by specific genetic markers at the T and ST loci. While the breed standard established by kennel clubs specifies a short, low-set screw tail, long-tailed Boston Terriers are purebred specimens carrying specific genetic combinations (t/t at T locus and N/N at ST locus). This comprehensive report examines the genetic basis, inheritance patterns, and characteristics of long-tailed Boston Terriers, providing breeders and enthusiasts with essential insights into this distinctive variation within the breed.
Long Tail Boston Terrier
Natural Long Tail Genetics
According to genetic research, Boston Terriers with full-length tails carry two copies of the recessive t/t genotype, resulting in a normal tail length rather than a bobtail. These dogs will pass the t allele to 100% of their offspring, preserving the long tail trait. While less common, Boston Terriers with natural long tails are still considered purebred if AKC registered.
Long Tail Characteristics
Long-tailed Boston Terriers typically display straight tails that point downward when calm or "gay tails" carried above the horizontal level of the back. The full-length tail is a natural variation, distinct from the standard screw tail, and does not require docking or modification. These tails generally have normal vertebral development without the kinks or screws associated with the DVL2 mutation.
The Long Tail Gene and Inheritance in Boston Terriers
Genetic Inheritance Patterns
While previous sections covered natural tail genetics, this section focuses specifically on inheritance. According to genetic testing research, when breeding two Boston Terriers with normal t/t genotypes, 100% of puppies will inherit long tails. However, breeding a t/t dog with a t/T (bobtail) carrier results in approximately 50% long-tailed and 50% bobtail offspring.
Long Tail Development
Unlike screw tail Boston Terriers that carry the DVL2 mutation, long-tailed Boston Terriers develop full caudal vertebrae without vertebral abnormalities. Their tails can contain up to 23 vertebrae, allowing for normal tail growth and mobility. This results in straighter, more flexible tails compared to dogs with the ST (screw tail) genotype, which can affect vertebral development and tail structure.
Common Long Tail Types and Health Concerns in Boston Terriers
Long Tail Variations
While previous sections covered straight and gay tails, other natural long tail variations in Boston Terriers include curled/corkscrew tails that remain loose rather than pressed tightly against the body, and crooked tails measuring 2-3 inches with a gentle bend rather than a sharp kink. These variations occur naturally without the ST (screw tail) genotype.
Health Considerations
Long-tailed Boston Terriers generally avoid the vertebral abnormalities associated with screw tails, as they lack the DVL2 mutation. However, they may still experience tail infections or dermatitis, particularly in areas where the tail contacts the body. Regular cleaning and inspection of the tail area helps prevent these issues. Compared to screw-tailed Boston Terriers, those with long tails typically have fewer spinal health concerns due to normal vertebral development.
Long Tail Boston Terrier
Long Tail Appearance vs Standard
While previous sections covered general tail characteristics, this section focuses specifically on visual differences. Long-tailed Boston Terriers deviate from the AKC standard which specifies tails should be no longer than one-quarter the distance from tail base to hock. Their full-length tails are typically straight and extend well beyond this length, though they maintain the breed's characteristic alertness and expressiveness. The longer tail provides more visible body language cues compared to shorter-tailed counterparts.
Training and Activity Considerations
Long-tailed Boston Terriers require additional spatial awareness during activities, as their tails can knock over items in confined spaces. However, the longer tail aids in balance during athletic activities and swimming. Special attention should be paid to protecting the tail from injury during play and exercise, unlike their screw-tailed counterparts whose shorter tails are naturally more protected.
Conclusion
Long-tailed Boston Terriers represent a natural genetic variation resulting from the recessive t/t genotype, which produces full-length tails rather than the breed standard bobtail. These dogs maintain normal vertebral development without the spinal issues often associated with the DVL2 mutation found in screw-tailed Boston Terriers. While they deviate from AKC breed standards, long-tailed Boston Terriers are still considered purebred if properly registered.
The presence of a long tail has both practical implications and health benefits for these dogs. Their full-length tails aid in balance during physical activities and provide clearer body language signals, though they require more spatial awareness in confined spaces. Most notably, long-tailed Boston Terriers typically experience fewer spinal health concerns compared to their screw-tailed counterparts due to normal vertebral development, though regular monitoring for tail-specific issues like infections or dermatitis is still recommended. Understanding these genetic and health aspects is crucial for breeders and owners working with long-tailed Boston Terriers.