Having Your Dog's Tail Docks And Dewclaws Removed


Many puppy buyers are not aware that breeds such as the Doberman or many of the terriers have their tails shortened (or docked) to a length dictated by their breed standard, or that the dewclaw, an unnecessary toe that's an evolutionary leftover, is often removed to give the leg a smoother look. If you purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder, either or both of these procedures may have already been done when the puppy was three to five days old. Some breeders are so skilled that they do the work themselves, with no apparent ill effect to the
puppies, who recover quickly from the amputations.

While tail docking is sometimes performed for a medical reason, such as an injury to the tail, it is most commonly done to meet the appearance standards for the breed. Some advocates also tout the preventive value of docking, especially for hunting breeds, pointing out that a tail that isn't there is a tail that can't be injured. The logic is flawed, however: If injury prevention were the only issue, then all hunting breeds would be docked - and maybe all other dogs as well.

Tail dockings and dewclaw removals cause so little discomfort to three to five-day-old puppies that they're usually performed without anesthesia. Both procedures are a little more complicated on older dogs, however, requiring anesthesia and post-operative care. This is exactly why it is recommended not to have the surgery done to adult dogs unless it is deemed necessary.

If you want your pup's tail docked and your breeder hasn't done it, be sure that your veterinarian is knowledgeable as to the correct length of tail for the breed. An incorrect dock may need to be done again, and a dock too short can take your pup out of the running if you hope to show him. If you do not intend to show your pup, we suggest that you leave his tail alone if it hasn't already been done.

A slightly stronger case can be made for the removal of dewclaws because injuries to them are common. It won't hurt to leave the dewclaws in place unless and until you do have a problem (these claws can occasionally get caught on objects), however. And if you do have a problem, you can have the dewclaws removed, ideally when your pet is spayed or neutered.