Re: tail docking

In Reply to: tail docking
Category:   Medical
Posted by:  Melissa
Posted on:  February 28, 2002 at 09:24:57

: I have had just gotten a 6 week old JRT and her tail was not docked. She is not registered so is there no reason why it should get done? Also, we are planning on having pups in a couple of years for purpose only to supply our extended family with these wonderful dogs, would this effect the pups in any way? Our male is docked. I was told that alot of JRT's are born with naturally docked tails is this true? I also was told if they are born with a "whole" tail then they are of a mixed breed, is this true?
: Any information would be appreciated.
:

Response:

Hi Melissa,

I'm always saddened when I see pups going to new homes at such a young age. In many states it's illegal to sell a puppy before the age of 8 weeks. Pups should be with their dam and siblings at least this long.

Pups tails are done at 1 to 5 days of age {depending on the Vet}. For a 6 week old pup this would be very painful and there would need to be anesthesia. There is no reason to have a tail docked at this age.

You mention that she's not registered. I hope you'll have her spayed and this is not the female you intend to breed in the future. There are many reputable breeders who have pet quality puppies and rescues across the country are full of dogs that are wonderful pets.

The length of tail on a dog is not going to affect puppies at all. A dog with a docked tail vs a long tail has no affect on genetics.

JRTs are not born with short tails. In rare instances pups are born with shorter tails, but this breed is a breed that has the tails docked. They're not born that way.

Before you decide to breed in the future, please do as much research as possible. Reputable breeders breed to better the breed, breed for comformation, temperament, health, hunting ability and do not breed solely for pets. As I said, there are many JRTs in rescue and in shelters lacking a home.