What breed of dog has hair growing in the opposite direction on its back? - briefly
The Bergamasco Shepherd is a breed known for its distinctive coat, which grows in cords or mats that can appear to grow in opposite directions on its back. This unique texture and direction of hair growth are characteristic features of this Italian herding dog.
What breed of dog has hair growing in the opposite direction on its back? - in detail
The breed of dog known for having hair that grows in the opposite direction on its back is the Airedale Terrier. This distinctive feature is one of the many unique characteristics that set this breed apart from others. The Airedale Terrier is often referred to as the "King of Terriers" due to its size and versatility, being the largest of the British Terriers. Originally bred in the valley of the River Aire, in Yorkshire, England, this breed was developed to be a versatile working dog, capable of performing a variety of tasks.
The Airedale Terrier's coat is dense and wiry, with a distinctive texture that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. The hair on the back of an Airedale Terrier grows in a direction opposite to that of most other dog breeds. This unique growth pattern is particularly noticeable on the back and sides, where the hair lies flat and close to the body, creating a sleek and streamlined appearance. The coat is typically a mixture of colors, with a tan or grizzle body and a black or grizzle saddle. The hair on the legs and head is often a lighter tan, adding to the breed's distinctive look.
The Airedale Terrier's coat serves several practical purposes. The dense, wiry hair provides excellent protection against the elements, making the breed well-suited to outdoor work in various weather conditions. The unique growth pattern of the hair on the back helps to repel water and dirt, keeping the dog cleaner and drier during outdoor activities. Additionally, the coat's texture and density help to insulate the dog, providing warmth in colder temperatures.
The Airedale Terrier is known for its intelligence, courage, and loyalty. These traits, combined with its distinctive appearance and versatile working abilities, have made the breed popular for a variety of roles, including police work, search and rescue, and as a family companion. The breed's unique coat and distinctive hair growth pattern are just a few of the many characteristics that make the Airedale Terrier a beloved and recognizable breed.
In summary, the Airedale Terrier is the breed of dog that exhibits the unique characteristic of having hair that grows in the opposite direction on its back. This feature, combined with the breed's dense, wiry coat and distinctive color patterns, contributes to its distinctive appearance and practical working abilities. The Airedale Terrier's intelligence, courage, and loyalty make it a versatile and beloved breed, well-suited to a variety of roles and environments.