isnt a curled tail a major fault?
Personaly...I don't care for the way my dogs is if that is what you are refering to...his what I call "monkey tail" but it don't stop me from liking him any less nor does it affect his performance....I may have to put him down tho cause he will not win any confirmation shows with it.
According to NKC...it IS a fault but does not specify as a major fault....
Tail:
Strong at the root tapering to the hocks, in a relaxed position, the tail can be carried back when excited. A "pump handle" tail is preferred but any tail carried from upright, when the dog is excited, to relaxed between the hocks is acceptable. The tail should not end in a complete circle.
Faults: Tail curled over the back; corkscrew tail, kinked or crooked tail.
Note: Natural tails preferred, docked tails acceptable but will be considered a cosmetic fault. http://www.nationalkennelclub.com/Breed-Standards/ab-standard.htm