Tail docking is the practice of surgically shortening a dog’s tail for cosmetic purposes. Historically, it was commonly performed on certain breeds like Boxers, Doberman Pinschers and Schnauzers. The rationale was that it prevented tail injuries and that the docked tails gave dogs a distinctive, breed-specific look. However, tail docking has become a controversial practice due to animal welfare concerns. There is an ongoing debate around whether tail docking should be banned or remain legal.
What is tail docking?
Tail docking refers to the surgical removal of part of a dog’s tail. Typically, it involves amputating all or a portion of the tail when puppies are between 2-5 days old. The procedure does not require anesthesia and is often performed by breeders.
In some cases, up to one-third to one-half of the tail is removed using surgical scissors or a scalpel. For breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, the whole tail is removed except for 1-2 joints. With certain breeds like Australian Shepherds and Welsh Corgis, it is common to dock the tail so that 2-5 inches remain.
The docked tail heals quickly within several days. However, the puppy may experience pain or discomfort during the healing process. The surgical wound is susceptible to infections as well.
What breeds traditionally have docked tails?
There are over 60 breeds that are customarily docked as puppies. Some of the most common ones include:
- Boxer
- Dobermann
- Schnauzer
- Rottweiler
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Australian Shepherd
- Miniature poodle
- Corgi
- Spaniel breeds like the Cocker Spaniel
In general, working dogs and terriers tend to have their tails docked. The practice arose in these breeds since it was believed that removing the tail reduced the risk of injuries. Dogs like Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers had their tails docked to give them a neat, compact appearance suited for their jobs.
For hunting dogs like Spaniels and Pointers, docked tails prevented injuries as the dogs ran through heavy brush and thickets. Herding breeds often had their tails removed so that livestock would not step on or injure the tail.
Finally, dogs used for fighting like Boxers and Doberman Pinschers underwent docking so that opponents could not bite or grab the tail in a fight.
What’s the history behind docking tails?
The exact origins of tail docking are unknown, but the practice dates back at least 2,000 years. Historical evidence indicates it was done in ancient Greece and Rome.
In England, tail docking gained popularity in the 1500s as working dogs like Spaniels were commonly used for hunting small game. Noblemen and royalty docked the tails of their sporting and hunting dogs to distinguish them from the mongrel dog population.
By the 1700s, tail docking had spread widely throughout England. Many breed standards were established which dictated the desired length for docked tails. For instance, the Boxer standard called for a docked tail no longer than one-third the natural length.
When British dog breeds spread to America and other parts of the world, tail docking traveled with them. Soon it became routine in breeds like Doberman Pinschers, Schnauzers and Australian Shepherds.
Why has tail docking been performed?
There were several reasons tail docking was historically practiced:
Preventing tail injuries
Working dogs like herding breeds and hunting dogs were at risk of injuring their tails as they performed their jobs. Brambles, thickets and livestock could damage tail tissues. Docking the tail protected it from wounds.
Hygiene purposes
Some breeds like Schnauzers and poodles had their tails docked for cleanliness and hygiene. Keeping the tail short prevented feces and debris from getting trapped in a long, feathery tail. This was important for city-dwelling dogs.
Convenience
Breeders found it easier to dock puppies’ tails rather than grooming long, high-maintenance tails throughout the dog’s life. Short tails were simpler to care for.
Distinguishing purebred dogs
Tail docking allowed people to recognize purebred dogs from mixed breeds. A docked tail signified that the dog came from a reputable breeder.
Breed standards
Many breed standards include a docked or shortened tail. Dogs are docked to conform to the traditional appearance for their breed.
Professional appearance
Certain working dogs like police and military dogs had docked tails to give them a professional, authoritative look befitting their jobs.
Dog fighting
Historically, dogs like Boxers had their tails docked to prevent the tail from being injured in dog fights. It also prevented opponents from grabbing the tail.
Why do some breeders still dock tails today?
While the rationale for tail docking has changed, some breeders continue the practice for the following reasons:
To uphold tradition
Many breeders dock puppies’ tails to maintain the historical tradition and breed standard. They want to preserve the characteristic “look” of the breed.
For dog shows
Dogs with docked tails conform to the breed standard requirement for conformation showing. They are unlikely to succeed in the show ring without a docked tail in breeds where it is expected.
For owner preferences
Some breeders dock tails because prospective puppy owners prefer the traditional docked look. They want the dogs to match the iconic image of the breed.
Identification purposes
Tail docking allows people to easily recognize purebred dogs. Some breeders dock so that their puppies are not mistaken for mixed breeds.
Hygiene reasons
Breeders of dogs like Schnauzers sometimes dock the tail because the thick, long fur is prone to fecal matting without regular trimming and cleaning.
| Reasons for Docking | Examples of Affected Breeds |
|---|---|
| Uphold tradition | Doberman Pinscher, Boxer |
| Dog shows | Spaniels, Schnauzers |
| Owner preferences | Rottweiler, Miniature Poodle |
| Identification | Yorkshire Terrier, Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
| Hygiene | Schnauzer |
What methods are used to dock tails?
There are two main techniques used to dock puppies’ tails:
Banding
A rubber ligature or “band” is tightly tied around the tail to restrict blood flow. The portion of tail below the band eventually atrophies and falls off. This method does not typically require anesthesia.
Amputation
Surgical scissors, scalpels or shears are used to amputate the tail. This is performed when puppies are 2-5 days old without anesthesia. Bleeding is typically minimal. Some vets may give a local anesthetic block prior to amputation.
Most breeders dock tails themselves using either banding or amputation. However, some veterinarians also offer tail docking services for clients.
Other methods
Less common techniques like cryosurgery (freezing the tail tip) have also been used for tail docking. However, banding and amputation remain the standard docking procedures.
What are the risks and concerns over tail docking?
Tail docking is controversial due to several animal welfare concerns:
Pain
Docking involves removing highly sensitive tail tissue containing many nerves. Puppies likely experience significant pain, even though it is performed when they are very young.
Prolonged distress
Research shows puppies may suffer distress and behavioral changes long after docking surgery. Pain can persist for weeks post-procedure.
Infection risk
The docking wound can become infected, especially if banding restricts blood flow. Puppies may fail to thrive and grow properly after surgery.
Neuromas
Nerve tissue can form painful neuromas or scar tissue at the amputation site, causing chronic pain.
Hindered communication
Docking impedes a dog’s ability to communicate properly using its tail. Subtle body language signals are lost.
Trauma
Puppies can go into shock from blood loss and trauma. In rare cases, puppies have died from complications.
Breed discrimination
Certain breeds are singled out for docking based on arbitrary tradition or breed standards. This seems unfairly discriminatory.
Cosmetic reasons
Docking serves purely cosmetic purposes today in most breeds. Canine welfare should take priority over appearance.
What do veterinary organizations say about tail docking?
Many leading veterinary associations worldwide oppose docking and regard it as an unnecessary, inhumane procedure:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
The AVMA supports a ban on tail docking for cosmetic reasons only. However, it believes there are still valid reasons for docking in some breeds.
British Veterinary Association (BVA)
The BVA states tail docking causes unnecessary pain and distress. They recommend banning non-therapeutic docking.
Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
The AVA strongly opposes docking and believes there is rarely a justifiable reason to shorten a dog’s tail.
New Zealand Veterinary Association
The NZVA is committed to prohibiting tail docking except when injury or disease necessitates it. They view it as unethical and inhumane.
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
The CVMA condemns docking for cosmetic purposes. They urge breed associations to remove docking from breed standards.
So most veterinary groups worldwide advocate against docking. But opinions differ on whether docking should be permitted for certain working dogs or breeds.
Which countries have tail docking bans?
Currently, around 20 countries worldwide have legislation banning docking for cosmetic purposes:
Europe
– United Kingdom
– Sweden
– Norway
– Finland
– Denmark
– Germany
– Switzerland
– Austria
– Slovenia
– Greece
South America
– Argentina
– Brazil
Asia/Africa
– Israel
– Taiwan
– Australia
– South Africa
North America
– New Zealand
Docking is still legal in the United States and Canada, though efforts exist to ban it. Cross-border differences in legislation complicate regulation.
What are the exceptions to tail docking bans?
Most bans have exemptions allowing docking when:
– The dog suffers tail injury or disease requiring amputation
– Certain working or hunting dogs require tail removal for their jobs
– Breeds like Corgis have naturally bobbed tails due to a genetic defect
So generally therapeutic and occupational docking is still permitted under anti-docking laws. The restrictions target cosmetic docking only.
What alternatives exist to docking tails?
Instead of docking, breeders and owners can:
Trim tail hair
Long tail fur can be regularly clipped short on breeds prone to matting and fecal soiling.
Tie tails up
Working dogs’ tails can be tied safely out of harm’s way using hair ties or rubber bands during tasks like herding.
Use tail protectors
Plastic or leather tail protectors worn by dogs reduce injury risks for certain activities.
Train dogs
Dogs can be trained to tuck tails between legs to avoid damage when running through brush.
These options avoid unnecessary amputation while protecting tails from trauma when needed.
Are breeders moving away from tail docking?
There are signs of a shift away from docking in the purebred dog breeding community:
Breed standard changes
The Doberman Pinscher and Briard breed standards were recently updated to permit undocked tails in conformation showing.
Greater veterinary refusal
Many vets worldwide now decline requests to dock tails solely for cosmetic reasons.
Increasing breeder refusal
Small but growing numbers of traditionally docked breeders like Boxer breeders are keeping tails natural.
Public backlash
Outrage and protests over docking put pressure on the breeding community to phase out the practice.
Legal restrictions
Anti-docking legislation bans cosmetic docking in a rising number of countries and regions.
So while many pedigreed dog breeders cling to tradition, changes in attitudes and policies are turning the tide against non-therapeutic tail docking globally.
Conclusion
Tail docking was historically practiced for various working, identification and hygiene purposes in certain dog breeds. Today it remains an ingrained tradition and show requirement for over 60 breeds. However, docking faces growing opposition due to animal welfare concerns over unnecessary pain, trauma and mutilation. It provides no proven benefit to family companion dogs.
As veterinary, public and legal pressure mounts worldwide, more purebred dog breeders are likely to move away from docking in the coming years. But any ban faces challenges from breeders concerned with preserving established breed characteristics. The ultimate fate of tail docking remains fiercely debated between show breeders, veterinary groups, animal advocates and lawmakers.