Dog Breeds with Widow’s Peak
Widow’s peak certainly isn’t an uncommon way to describe someone’s unique hairline. But when the word is used, it’s most likely geared towards humans. So what happens when you see a canine with a similar hairline? Is it possible that dogs can have a widow’s peak?
Yes, certain breeds have a widow’s peak. A dog’s widow’s peak is described the same way it is described on a human. The hairline comes down to a V-shape at the center of its forehead, between his ears. It is more noticeable in some breeds than others and is a genetic trait passed down from the parents.
Not everyone is familiar with the widow’s peaks, especially when it comes to the canine widow’s peak. This blog will explain what exactly a widow’s peak is, what it looks like on a dog, and what breeds are most likely to have them.
What is a Widow’s Peak?
A widow’s peak can best be described as a unique hairline in which the hair comes together in a V-like shape in the center of the forehead. The hair will be higher on either side. For some, the widow’s peak is more gradual and can almost go unnoticed. Others will have an intense, obvious low point down the middle of their forehead.
(Source: Healthline)
Why Is It Called a Widow’s Peak?
The term ‘widow’s peak’ dates back to 18th Century England. During these times, a woman who lost her husband and became a widow would wear a triangular hat or hood. This accessory would have a point that came down the middle of the forehead.
From that moment, an old wives’ tale was born that said anyone with a widow’s peak would end up a widow early on in life. But the old wives’ tale is exactly that — a tale that has no significant meaning, so don’t worry if your dog (or you) has a widow’s peak.
A widow’s peak has nothing to do with marriage in the slightest. It is simply determined by genetics.
(Source: Metro)
Dogs Can Have Widow’s Peaks
If you have ever seen a dog that has a V-shape down the center of his forehead in between his ears, then you have seen a dog that has a widow’s peak. Yes, it’s true — our furry friends can have widow’s peaks that were genetically passed down from their parents. Just like humans.
(Source: NationalPureBredDogDay)
Dog Breeds That Have Widow’s Peaks
A widow’s peak is not incredibly common in canines. That is why a widow’s peak can be used to ID a dog in which the DNA is unknown. Here is a comprehensive list of the top 7 dog breeds that are most likely to sport a widow’s peak.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of the most refined, regal, and ultimately gorgeous dogs you will ever lay eyes on. His coat is silky smooth and will dangle gracefully to the floor. His confidence and loyalty are unmatched, making him an instant classic.
The Afghan Hound is also known for his striking widow’s peak, which only adds a certain amount of depth and distinction to this dignified dog. It might be a bit hard to see sometimes, though, as his long, luxurious locks are likely to hide what’s hiding underneath.
Saluki
Salukis are known for their lean bodies, independent minds, and gentleness. What they are also known for is their widow’s peak. This widow’s peak is more noticeable than the Afghan Hound, as most of the Saluki’s coat is short and easily manageable.
However, his ears are another story. They are long and dangly with stunning silky-smooth hair that should be groomed regularly. These adorable ears are sure to catch your attention quickly. They also highlight the widow’s peak, which tends to be very profound in this breed, especially on lighter-colored Salukis.
Borzoi
When you think of a large-sized dog with a uniquely long snout, the Borzoi likely comes to mind. Borzoi is a big boy. Yet, despite his size, he is a very loving and caring canine that enjoys being with families, including kids of all ages. He is also a surprisingly excellent dog to add to apartment living.
Aside from his distinct long snout, another thing that sets the Borzoi apart from the crowd is his widow’s peak. It can be seen on all shades of this dog breed. However, it’s common for this dog’s widow’s peak to be a bit less noticeable than other breeds such as the Saluki or German Shepherd.
Pitbull
The Pitbull is a dog that gets plenty of publicity, good and bad. These intelligent brutes can be found in all types of homes across the nation. Whether you’re a fan or not, one thing holds for the breed — they are known for their appearances, which of course, includes a widow’s peak.
A widow’s peak is very easily spotted on a Pitbull. That is because he is a short-haired pup with even shorter ears. His face is broader than other breeds. This combination of features makes it simple for the widow’s peak to take center stage, no matter the color of the dog.
German Shepherd
Bursting with confidence, loyal to a fault, and more intelligent than most breeds, the German Shepherd is undeniably one of the most popular breeds in the country. He is known to be able to do just about anything, whether it’s snuggling with kids on the couch, watching over the household, or even being a part of the police force and military.
Wherever this dog is, one thing is for certain — he has beautiful features which include a widow’s peak. When most people try to think of a dog they have seen sporting a widow’s peak, it’s likely to be the German Shepherd.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Any Hound lover will fall in love with the Treeing Walker Coonhound instantly. He is a super loveable and intelligent pup that doesn’t get too obnoxiously big. Yet, he is still large enough to go on some fun adventures with his loved ones.
The Treeing Walker Coonhound looks like your average Hound. He is long and leans with a cute face and floppy ears. Between those adorable floppy ears, you will find his widow’s peak, which is one of the most distinct widow’s peaks on this list.
This is due to the color combination of the Treeing Walker Coonhound, which will leave most of his body white with a darker-colored peak down the middle.
Chow Chow
You know when you see a Chow Chow. This breed is unmistakable. His appearance differs from any breed across the country. He comes with a sturdy build, square body, tiny triangular ears, and a double coat that gives him a lion-like look.
Somewhere within his thick double coat, you will find a widow’s peak. Of course, it might be more challenging to find it on this breed, though. That’s because he has a uniquely “squishy” facial structure and tons of hair, making color changes go unnoticed most of the time.
(Source: EmbarkVet, DogForum, AKC)
As you can see, many breeds have varying levels of widow’s peaks. Keep in mind that this is a genetic trait passed down from the parents. So, that means that many mutts will also have widow’s peaks, which they developed from one of their parents.
Final Thoughts
Dogs can have widow’s peaks. They look similar to a human’s widow’s peak, with a V-shape of hair trailing down the center of the forehead. Widow’s peaks aren’t incredibly common in dogs, although some popular breeds like German Shepherd and Pitbulls have them. They are passed down genetically, which is why they can be used to ID a new pet with unknown parents.