What is the functional purpose of carrying the tail curled tightly over the back when the Yakutian Laika is resting in deep snow?

Answer

To conserve body heat by protecting the nose and face

The tail of the Yakutian Laika serves a significant functional purpose beyond balance during movement, especially in extreme cold. When the dog curls its thick tail tightly over its back while resting, this carriage acts specifically to conserve vital body heat. The curled tail effectively covers and insulates the sensitive areas of the nose and face from the frigid temperatures and blowing snow found in the Arctic environment, acting almost like a natural blanket during sleep or periods of rest. This behavior is a critical adaptation for survival in their harsh native climate.

What is the functional purpose of carrying the tail curled tightly over the back when the Yakutian Laika is resting in deep snow?
Dogbreedtraitphysical characteristicYakutian Laika