[Jenny Elliott]

Hi everyone,

I am currently researching a study into tail docking and am trying to gather opinions from doggy people from different walks of life, e.g. breeders, owners of working dogs, vets and anyone who owns or just loves dogs.

I would be very grateful for any opinions from anyone and it would be helpful if you could also let me know if you fall into any of the above categories. Many thanks!

Jenny

[rutylr]

I own Rottweilers.
I know in Germany and lots of other countries they do not dock any more.I like the docked look,don't know if the work better or not (with or with out).

[Peter]

i dont like it sorry :cry: :cry:

[bordercollies14]

there is nothing wrong with tail docking hunting dogs (well some of them) need their tails docked my dog's (he is a german shorthair pointer) tail is docked and it's in the breed standerd for some breeds to have their tails docked

[you threw it you fetch it]

I have to admit that I don't feel comfortable with the idea of docking tails. The fact that it was ever done for fashion or appearance it horrendous to me.

I am interested that there may be a more valid reason for doing this. How does this help the dog?

[Staffi Lover!]

I think its horrible I could never Imagine this being done to my doggy.

I love to see her tail wag when she's all excited and happy, It also lets me know whats she wants.

[opokki]

I prefer that dogs keep their tails if they are born with them. I don't like the idea of cosmetic alterations for dogs. Having said that, I was relieved to recently view a video clip of boxer pups having their tails docked and to see that it did not appear to cause them great pain as I originally assumed.

[Staffi Lover!]

Why do certain docks get there tails docked? Is it only a cosmetic reason or is a there any health benefits by getting there tails docked?

I'm just trying to understand why people do it?

[opokki]

Originally Posted by Staffi Lover!

Why do certain docks get there tails docked? Is it only a cosmetic reason or is a there any health benefits by getting there tails docked?

I'm just trying to understand why people do it?

I think it was originally done to benefit the dog. Certain breeds are prone to tail injuries in the work that they do so removing the tail preventing these injuries.

[Enchanted Gypsy]

Originally Posted by opokki

I think it was originally done to benefit the dog. Certain breeds are prone to tail injuries in the work that they do so removing the tail preventing these injuries.

Also: Many years ago when people were taxed for owning dogs, working dogs were exempt and their tails were docked to signify they were indeed "working dogs".