Why Do They Cut Rottweiler Tails: Understanding the Practice of Tail Docking in Rottweilers

Tail docking, which is the practice of cutting off a portion of a dog’s tail, has long been controversial. A puppy undergoes this tail docking treatment when it is only a few days old. Why Do They Cut Rottweiler Tails? Continue reading to learn more about the reasons for the tail docking of Rottweilers.

The working heritage of the Rottweilers gives us a clue to the reasons of tail docking.

Working dogs, Rottweilers were employed as security dogs or to herd sheep. Their tails were docked when they were working dogs to keep them from getting hurt while doing hard work and to give them a more balanced appearance.

With passage of time, Rottweilers have transformed into family pets instead of working dogs and with this change of status, the tail docking has become debatable. Welfare organizations for Animals are arguing that there is no medical or functional necessity for a modern day dog to have its tail docked.

With the ongoing debate of ethical consequences of tail docking in Rottweilers, certain breeders and owners still want to cut the tail of the Rottweiler puppy. When queried about this docking, the common answer is – for aesthetics reasons. The general belief is that it gives the Rottweiler the desired traditional look.

One more reason given is for hygienic purposes the tail is docked. Folks who are in favor of tail docking say that this reduces the risk of injury or infection due to wagging of tail against objects or being caught in tight spaces.

It is imperative to note that opinions on tail docking varies widely with people of different countries and different regions of a country. Legally also there is a variation regarding the tail docking practice. (why do they cut rottweiler tails)

Why Do They Cut Rottweiler Tails? : Tail docking and its past

In the olden days, a dog’s primary duty was hunting, herding and protection of cattle and property. The reason for docking the tail was different for different regions. It also depended on what the dog was doing, either herding or hunting or protecting. In certain cases, tail docking was done as a means of preventing injuries during work or combat. In other cases, it was for a cosmetic purposes and in certain other cases, it was to maintain breed standard.(why do they cut rottweiler tails)

In the present times, folks have different opinion regarding tail docking in dogs. Various countries have applied regulations and restrictions regarding tail docking after receiving submissions from animal welfare organizations. American Veterinary Medical Association and Royal Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have opposed the docking of tails unless it is medically advised.

Knowing the history and reason behind tail docking helps us understand better the evolution of tail docking. By examining the argument on tail docking we can understand better regarding this procedure. We can also understand better the attitudes towards per welfare and how it has evolved in the modern times.

Why are Rottweilers tails removed? (why do they cut rottweiler tails)

Docking of tails in Rottweilers has been debated for a long for its controversial nature. To understand the reason for this practice, we need to understand the breed standard, the history of a Rottweiler and practical reasons.

Traditionally a standard breed Rottweiler is without its tail. Historically this was the practice as the dog was used for either herding of as a guard dog. It was believed that the docked tail helped the dogs to have better agility and prevent injuries during tough activities.

An important practical reason for tail docking is to prevent injuries to the dog. A Rottweiler being a very active and energetic dog, it was involved in various physical activities. A long tail that is constantly wagging could cause trauma or accidents in environments where the space is limited.

Also folks say that for aesthetic reasons, tai docking is necessary.  Also a docked tail is the distinctive feature and appearance of a Rottweiler which will highlight its distinctive muscular build.

There is a change in attitude towards tail docking the recent times with many countries and organizations prohibiting tail docking or discourage this practice.

Topics that are controversial, it is important to consider various perspectives when talking about docking of tails in Rottweilers. Historically as well as practically, tail docking was a prevalent practice. The current opinions are different in the modern times where animal welfare is more important than other considerations.(why do they cut rottweiler tails)

Traditions and breed standards are important in maintaining the heritage of a dog breed like a Rottweiler. These standards work as a guideline for people involved in breeding, dog lovers and judges who wish to preserve the Rottweiler appearance standards.

Rottweiler breed standards give an ideal physical features, temperament and overall structure that define the breed. These standards help in maintaining a consistency in Rottweilers appearance across generations and see that they maintain their special qualities.

The distinctive feature of a Rottweiler is its robust build, strong muscle structure and unique markings, a confident and calm temperament are valued very highly. Breeders try to produce dogs that are close to these established standards.

Retaining a breed’s legacy is important to maintaining its genuineness and functionality. By sticking to the well-known breed standards, breeders try to produce Rottweilers that are healthy with good temperament which can excel in various roles. These could be as a guard dog or as a family pet.

Canine clubs and organizations play an important role in promoting and maintaining these traditions by conducting various events and shows where a Rottweiler is checked for set breed standard. These events provide important feedback to individuals and breeders who work hard to improve the breed standards. (why do they cut rottweiler tails)

Tail injuries in working dogs, prevention of tail fractures or breaks during intense physical activities

Practical Reasons: Preventing Tail Injuries in Working Dogs during Intense Physical Activities

Working dogs are important in different areas like law enforcement, search and rescue and military operations. These highly trained dogs are in extreme physical activities that can put them at risk in tail injuries. These tail injuries could be fractures or breaking of the tail.

The tail injuries would be very painful to a dog which could lead to severe problems in the longer term. For the welfare of the dog, it is important to take practical measure to avoid these kinds of injuries while the dog is performing these demanding duties.

One of the practical solution is to give protective clothing / gear designed for the tail of the dog. Tail shields from durable materials can help protect the tail from impact or accidental trauma during physically demanding activities. These protective shields would be light weight and flexible which will allow the dog to move normally while performing its duties.

An additional preventive measure is to train and condition the dog and the dog handler. By strengthening the dog’s core muscles, and improving the agility of the dog, dog handlers can help minimize the risk of tail injuries in dogs.

Also regular veterinary visits are helpful in detecting any underlying conditions that may make a working dog more prone to tail injuries. Situations like weak bones, joint issues are to be checked proactively through regular medical interventions or dietary supplements.

Why Do They Cut Rottweiler Tails – Criticism and Controversies

The culture of tail docking in animals has been a subject of disapproval and controversy. Associations like AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and BVA (British Veterinary Association) have taken a strong stand against tail docking.  They deem this practice to be unnecessary and unethical.

The major concerns expressed by the AVMA and BVA is that tail docking is done for cosmetic reasons and not for medical reasons. They say that removing a part of the animal body for non-medical reason is an unwanted procedure which causes a lot of pain and distress to the dog.

They also say that tail docking restricts the animal from its natural behavior and communication. The tail is an important indicator of a dog’s nonverbal communication. Cutting of this communication tool from a dog will cause confusion and frustration in the animal.

Morals also come into play when looking at tail docking practices. It is a general belief that carrying out an unwanted procedure on a dog for simple visual spectacle is against the principles of animal welfare. The argument from the animal welfare organizations is that a pet should not be forced in to an unnecessary surgical procedure unless it is medically advised.

There is a ban of such procedure in a few countries. The tail docking procedure is only allowed under genuine medical conditions and not otherwise. The debate regarding tail docking is ongoing and there are different opinions in this regard. There is also an effort to find if an alternative solution can be achieved for certain breeds of working dogs.

The general criticism and controversy around tail docking is of regarding moral and ethical consideration where an unwanted procedure is performed on a pet. This is highlights the importance of informed discussions within the veterinary communities and society regarding responsible and compassionate treatment of our pets.

In the US, rules on tail docking are different for different states. While some states have a complete ban on this practice while some other states go by case to case basis. Exploring and knowing about the specific laws in your state to ensure compliance is important.

AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) is strictly against tail docking for aesthetic purposes and it considered as an un wanted procedure that causes a lot pain and further health issues for the pets. Also AVMA allows this procedure for certain exceptions and medical conditions for a select working breeds of dogs.

Internationally, some European countries have banned tail docking completely except for specific working dog breeds. A few countries may have a lenient view on tail docking or further still have no law against tail docking.

It is important to check with the local veterinary or animal welfare organizations to stay abreast of the local laws and guidelines about tail docking in the areas where we live. As a responsible pet owner, understanding these rules and laws is helpful for our animal friends. (why do they cut rottweiler tails)