Cutting It Short: The Basics About Tail Docking in Dogs

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Is tail docking more about looks than practicality?

The practice of tail docking in dogs has been around for centuries and it has served a variety of purposes. In modern times, however, docking the tails of dogs is primarily done for cosmetic purposes which begs the question of its morality. Let’s go over the basics about tail docking in dogs including the history of the practice, its purpose and whether or not you should consider it for your dog.

History of Tail Docking

Tail docking in dogs involves the surgical removal of a portion of the dog’s tail. This practice can be done in one of two ways – by constricting blood flow to the tail using a ligature until the tail falls off or by surgically severing the tail. This practice has existed for thousands of years, first appearing during the time of the ancient Romans when it was believed that amputating a dog’s tail would prevent rabies. Later, a tax in the United Kingdom was levied on working dogs that had tails, so individuals started docking the tails of their dogs to avoid this tax. Other historical reasons for tail docking include the impressions that it might increase a dog’s speed, strengthen his back and give guard dogs a more ferocious appearance.

Related:Does Your Dog Have The Balls For Neuticles?

Reasons for Tail Docking in Dogs

In more modern times, tail docking continues to be a common practice. Working dogs, such as hunting and herding dogs, are at risk for collecting burs in their tails or for injuring the tail while moving through brush. For these reasons, tail docking may be considered practical or even necessary. In many cases, however, tail docking is done cosmetically to conform to breed standards – this is particularly common in cases of show dogs. Certain breed standards issue a fault for a non-docked tail, which perpetuates the practice for cosmetic rather than practical purposes.

Is it Harmful to Dogs?

Several dog breeds have genetically bobbed tails – that is, they are short and look as if they have been docked. This doesn’t mean, however, that the tail is a completely useless appendage. Dogs use their tails for balance and communication. Some breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever, even use them for swimming and other activities. In cases like this, a dog with a docked tail may be at a disadvantage when compared to non-docked dogs.

Related:What Your Dog Insurance Plan Covers

You also need to consider the morality of severing part of a dog’s body for cosmetic purposes. Many breeders and veterinarians perform tail docking procedures on puppies under two weeks old without any form of anesthesia. Opponents of tail docking use these examples to suggest that the procedure causes unnecessary pain and suffering for the dog. Certain studies have even suggested that dogs with docked tails grow up to be more aggressive, possibly because they are unable to transmit social cues through their tail and thus grow up to be more anti-social than they otherwise might.

Legality of Tail Docking

Though the practice of tail docking is unrestricted in the United States, many countries have begun to restrict the practice or ban it entirely. In both England and Wales, ear cropping is illegal and tail docking is banned except in a few working breeds – even then, the procedure must be carried out by a licensed veterinary surgeon. In fact, the Animal Welfare Act of 2006 made tail docking a criminal offence except in certain working dogs. Other countries in which tail docking is completely banned include Austria, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and more. Other countries have similar laws to the U.K. stating that tail docking is only permissible in certain working breeds. Some of these countries include Spain, Portugal, Germany, New Zealand and Brazil.

What do you think about tail docking? Is your dog’s tail docked? We want to know what you think – leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Make Your Dog A Chia Pet With Lincoln Bark Treats

Lincoln Bark sent him Sweet Little Butterpup and Treat Smart treats. Made with Chia Seeds, a superfood that contains antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.

5 Reasons Why Your Cat May Be Losing Weight

Many cat owners are worried that their felines are too fat - but what do you do if your kitty is losing weight unintentionally? This needs a closer look.

Sphynx

Friendly, inquisitive, open, and intelligent, the hairless Sphynx cat is a definite lap cat if for no other reason than it craves your body warmth!

Freshwater Sharks

Freshwater sharks are a group of freshwater fish belonging to the minnow family. Freshwater sharks have long, powerful bodies and large dorsal fins,

Airedoodle

A mix of Standard Poodle and Airedale Terrier, the Airedoodle is relatively new to North America. This active and beautiful pooch is a great family dog.

Can Dogs Get Pimples?

Does Spot has spots he shouldn''t have? Dogs can get those annoying pimples, and while not a threat to his health, they can be irritating to his skin.

Pont-Audemer Spaniel

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is an excellent hunting breed. This is a hardy and hard-working breed which makes him an excellent working dog.

Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora has an outstanding reputation for being not only intelligent but highly adaptable. Playful and loving, these cats do well with children.

Armant

The Armant is an Egyptian sheepdog breed known for its loyalty and herding ability. Developed as a farm dog, this breed is smart and highly trainable.

10 Best Bowls For Bernedoodles

Finding the right bowl for your dog can be challenging because they vary so much in size, so we''ve compiled a list of the 10 best bowls for Bernedoodles.

French Chow

A relativelty rare designer dog breed, the French Chow is a mix between a French Bulldog and a Chow Chow that inherits the best traits of both parents.

PetPace Wireless Smart Collar Tracks And Monitors Your Pet’s Health

I''m excited to hear about the PetPace, a new smart wireless collar that monitors your pet''s health, vital signs, activity and wellbeing all day, every day.

Ask the Animal Communicator: Heartache of Losing a Pet

In most cases, our precious pets will pass before we do. And yet when that time finally arrives, the worry and pain and grief can feel unbearable.

American Walking Pony

The American Walking Pony is a true pleasure to work with. This horse breed is calm and docile, and is comfortable to ride.

Dalmatian

Often associated as the kind of dogs who help firemen and police, the Dalmatian is a notoriously good workers and are known as an assertive, friendly breed.