Tail docking is a very emotive subject in the dog world.  Supporters of docking say that there are several reasons why tails should be docked - these include avoiding tail damage and maintaining breed standards.  We say that it done purely for cosmetic reasons.  The majority of dogs are now kept as pets, not working animals, and there is very little likelihood of tails getting damaged.  As for maintaining breed standards, this is simply the out-dated views of breeders and show judges who have become accustomed to the look of a certain breed and are unwilling to change their views.  The Kennel Club plays a large part in perpetrating the custom and undocked dogs are unfairly discriminated against in the show ring.  Public pressure is beginning to sway opinion and undocked dogs have just recently been winning major awards but the change will take some time.  We have to make our views known and put pressure on those who think that a mutilated animal is more attractive.  Animal cruelty, in any shape or form, is not acceptable.

TV Vet Emma says: tail docking is an "outdated, barbaric and totally unnecessary procedure".
Visit her web site and sign her petition against tail docking.

Petition

The RSPCA say: "We are opposed to the docking of tails because we view this as unnecessary mutilation."

An undocked Norfolk Terrier.  Yes, he looks different - but that is only because we are used to seeing him without a tail.  Is he any less attractive with it?

Two boxers - one docked and one undocked.  Let's hope, in the not too distant future, we think the one without the tail looks unnatural!