Reminder: The selected responses presented below are a reflection of the collaborative effort of Hybrid Wolf Mailing List aka. Wolfdoglist members to share opinions / information about wolf x dogs, responsible "ownership" and breeding practices. This FAQ is not a scientific or veterinary resource. Some responses have been edited for brevity.
Wolfdog FAQ - Question # 18
Does a black spot on my dog's tail mean he has wolf in him?
Sometimes it's not even a different fur color, but instead, the texture of the fur will be different. This mark is an indication of where the scent gland on the tail is located. In dogs this gland is no longer functioning. Although, cats also have this gland, and it still functions.
Teresa
The black spot is called a scent gland and all dogs, wolves, and wolfdogs (canids) have it. Its just not as noticeable on some dog breeds... It is not a indication of any wolf in your animal.
Lin
Even AKC Yellow Labs (Retrievers) often have a perfectly formed BLACK! triangle on their tails over the scent gland area!
Ann D.
I also have a German Shepherd pup that has the gland mark on his tail. It's very clear and very dark and in the correct triangle shape. But he is pure AKC GSD, no wolf there. He also has fairly small ears for a GSD and no hump in the nose, and has fairly slanted eyes (amber), but still is pure GSD.
Jen
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