Tail Docking

[Daisy Doodle]

Daisy is my first boxer, 11 weeks old now, and I was wondering about docking. There's so much conflicting info out there that I'd love to have some input from fellow owners.

She has not yet had her tail docked (a miscommunication/oversight of an inexperienced breeder). My first question is, how necessary is this? I've read in some places that it's just for show and heard from others that they'll constantly break their tails if it's not done. Secondly, is it too late to have her tail docked? I've read of puppies having it done as early as 2-5 days and I don't want to cause her any undue stress or pain.

Not to mention the fact that I love her little white-tipped tail...but if it will hurt her in the long run, I'd like to avoid that if at all possible.

Thank you in advance for the advice!

 

[gmacleod]

It is too late to have her tail docked. That is, if you have it removednow, it will not be a docking surgery but a full amputation. That is NOT a minor matter, and (as any amputee will tell you) can have life-long complications, including phantom pains. Except your dog won't be able to tell you about them - and you won't be able to do anything about it once her tail is cut off anyway.

Docking is a minor surgery done within the first 2 days of life. At this time, it is believed by some that the nerves are not fully developed and the dog (a) does not feel much pain, and (b) does not later develop the problems that amputees are prone to (incl. phantom pains).

There are many countries around the world where docking dogs (other than for medical or working reasons) is illegal. Dogs in those countries do not have high incidence of tail problems (not counting problems arising from some event like the tail being accidentally slammed in a door, naturally).

In short, there is absolutely NO reason to suspect that amputating your puppy's tail is going to be in her best interests. It is, however, a major and very painful surgery that is liable to leave her with problems. It would thus seem the most reasonable and humane course of action to NOT amputate her tail unless she ever actually does have a problem with it.

 

[MyDivo]

i agree with Gmacleod. Cooper has his tail and I adore it! Yes, it is very strong and sometimes he hits/whips me with it, but I survive..... Sometimes I wonder what it would be like if he didnt have his tail but, it give him so much personality and I too love the white tip!

My vote... Keep the tail :o)

 

[LILYLARUE]

From experience, docking a tail in an older puppy or adult dog is a lot of pain and aftercare. It isn't an easy task on you or the dog.

I highly suggest leaving the tail be.

 

[sargboxerluv]

I also say leave the tail.

Not only does it cause a lot of pain, tails help dogs communicate to other dogs (and people) what they are thinking.

 

[Daisy Doodle]

Thank you!

Your replies have really put my mind at ease, and I appreciate the info! I would absolutely not want to put her through the trauma of an amputation--Daisy's tail stays!

 

[lorae]

I must agree with the others to leave the tail alone.

There would be so much needless pain inflicted on your pup at this time with the amputation.

Besides, tails can be FUN!!