Clipping a dogs tail??
By chickangel
@chickangel (161)
United States
April 25, 2007 10:01pm CST
Ok I have noticed that boston Terriers have their tail clipped off (most) along with various other dogs (rotwilers, boxers, ect).
My Boson terrier has his tail it was never clipped and he is 1 1/2 now.
My question is does it make a difference to clip their tail? If it does then How does it make the difference? also Why do people clip the tails? if they were not supose to have it why are they born with it? and last one Who cam up with the tail clipping?
just carious.
2 responses
@chickangel (161)
• United States
26 Apr 07
Nor do I. I love Buddy's tail...lol I think it adds to his caractor, it looks crucked though (I often wonder if it was broken as a pup). I got him when he was 6 months, don't know if it was broke or suppost to look like that. can only tell when he sticks it strait up...lol
either way it cute.
@iiartisanii (254)
• United States
27 Apr 07
It probably wasn't broken. A lot of dogs that are normally docked will have kinked tails because for years and years they havent been bred for correct tails since they're just going to be cut off. You'll notice sometimes in Boxers or Dobermans that haven't been cropped they have ears that don't quite hang right. Its because straight ears and straight tails haven't been a major part of anyone's breeding program.
@iiartisanii (254)
• United States
26 Apr 07
Tails are docked shortly after birth.
The custom started with working dogs. Shorter tails are less likely to be damaged out in a field or working in a guard dog situation (less likely to be pulled on by an intruder). Dogs are still docked for working purposes today, but it is more likely that it was done for cosmetic and customary purposes.
It does not make a difference to the dog whether or not the tail is docked, but if it hasn't been done by the time the dog is a few days old, it is too late to do it. The tails are removed before the puppy's nervous system has fully developed (about 5-6 days old) and the puppy doesn't feel much pain at all.
1 person likes this
@chickangel (161)
• United States
26 Apr 07
That is interesting, I never new that about working dogs. Oh I did not plan on clipping his tail it to cute. I was just cerious cause there are other boston terriers at this apartment complex and they have their tail cut. When I got him I never seen a boston terrier so didn't know. if it only for cosmetic purposes then I am glad he still has it. :)
