The Perfect Tail: A Discussion on Tail Set in Miniature American Shepherds

I’d like to have a discussion about the natural tail set standard for the Miniature American Shepherd. I’ve noticed a push for a certain tail set and while the promoted tail set is my preferred tail set as well, I think it’s important to examine and break down the exact wording in the standard for understanding and context.

When I read the standard, characteristics that are clearly defined usually use words like “IS” or “ARE” and “SHOULD.” Example - “Neck - The neck IS firm, clean, and in proportion to the body.” However, when we look at the natural tail standard, it reads:

“The undocked tail when at rest MAY hang in a slight curve. When excited or in motion the tail MAY be carried raised with the curve accentuated.”

This wording doesn’t dictate how the tail is or should look. It uses the term “MAY,” which, to me, indicates flexibility. There is also no fault listed for tail carriage. Together, this would again, indicate flexibility.

For example, I have a female whose tail follows her spine with only a slight upward curve. While she may not perfectly fit the standard, she is also not considered faulted. On the other hand, I have another female whose tail forms a distinct C shape, which I believe aligns more closely with how the standard describes what the tail may look like. Why?

Let’s focus on the phrase “raised with the curve accentuated.” I’ve heard some describe this as a tail that extends from the spine and gently curves upward at the end. However, what I can find looking for synonyms, antonyms and interpretations anywhere else, the definition of “curve accentuated” refers to a curve that is “highlighted, enhanced, or emphasized”—essentially making it more pronounced or noticeable than it would be naturally. This term is often used to describe shapes, contours, or designs where the curvature is intentionally exaggerated to create a stronger visual or aesthetic impact. In anatomy, for instance, an accentuated curve might describe a pronounced arch or bend in the body.

Antonym’s (opposite definition) for the word “accentuated” would be “minimized, understated, toned-down, softened.”

While I personally prefer an understated curve and a lower tail set, the standard doesn’t explicitly or even implicitly favor this. If we dive into the specific meaning of each word and phrase, the standard appears more open-ended, leaving room for a range of acceptable tail presentations rather than outlining a strict preference.

I am certainly open to hearing your interpretation, and your rationale for your interpretation.