Don't know what age he lost his tail, fairly young I think. He had a name as a worker from the off, for those who knew the dog but his name grew with his offspring and then, as of so many dogs, became a 'legend' ( ) on internet forums.
That picture must be over 20 years old, I put it up only for the fact that as a 'genuine' he was/is the best example of type i've ever seen.
Do you mean he looks 50/50 ?
Sort of Jeemes, is it really cut and dried at 50/50, I know thats what in theory you should aim for but I honestly think there are first crosses that seem to make sommat better?