Why Do People Cut Off Dogs Tails
Apparently the reason dogs tails are still docked today likely stems from a book published in 1891 titled the american book of the dog which idealizes tail docking and ear cropping as the proper look.
Why do people cut off dogs tails. Lee robinson m s argues that reported concerns of tail docking lack empirical evidence and is primarily supported by animal rights activists that lack experience with working dogs. Not interfered in the sense that the dog didn t hear well but in the sense that it would hear much better without the flops. Tail docking is the term given to the surgical removal of puppies tails for cosmetic purposes. Most modern dogs though are not out working like in times past where they might injure their tail.
There are different reasons depending upon the breed and the work the breed historically did. Tail docking for some breeds has been a requirement for some show dogs to be allowed to compete. This is often for aesthetic reasons. The tail is cut off using a pair of scissors or caused to drop off by occluding the blood supply using a tight rubber band.
And the owner of non working dogs had to pay the tax. The procedure was usually performed at 2 5 days of age. Because of this reason owners started to cut off non working dogs tail just to avoid the tax. There was tax on having non working dogs these days.
Large floppy ears interfered with hearing. It is also more likely that cutting off their tail will cause more injuries in dogs. That made their sense of smell less effective. Many dogs who do not work also have their tails docked.
Yes many are cut off cutting off a dogs tail is called docking. Typically there is a historical reason for tails being docked. The owners feel the dog looks better without a tail or that this provides a look that is familiar to the breed. Though docking and cropping are done mostly for appearance s sake many owners and breeders say removing hunting and farm dogs tails might prevent injuries during chases or herding.
So the tail and ears were cropped to make the dog a more effective tool for the job. Some dogs are docked because of a disease or infection. Although many are docked because the owners think it looks better you. There is also the belief that it is required.
Many people who are purchasing dogs from breeders are not even aware that tail docking is an option. A lot of sporting dogs are docked.