The purpose of tail docking in dogs and how to care for it
There are many breeds of dogs, distributed all over the world. Dogs give us the impression of being “clever”, “loyal” and “friendly”, and many people keep them as pets at home. What people may not realize is that dogs also play very important roles in special environments, such as guide dogs and police dogs, shouldering different missions. If you pay attention and observe, you will notice that some dogs' tails have been docked. So what exactly is the purpose of this? And how should they be cared for after tail docking?
1. What is the purpose of docking a dog's tail?
1. Reducing injuries to itself
For example, some hunting dogs follow their owners out to hunt and pass through all kinds of thorny brush. If the tail is not docked, it will keep wagging and become injured. In addition, the movement of the tail can also disturb the prey. There are also some small pet dogs whose tails are relatively thin and very prone to fractures, which is another reason for tail docking.
2. Hygiene considerations
Pet dogs live together with humans, and when the tail hangs down it is right near the anus, making it very easy for it to pick up feces and spread mess all over the home. This then brings a lot of bacteria into the home, so some pet dog owners dock their dogs' tails. However, the editor thinks this practice is still somewhat cruel. Since you have decided to keep it, you should do a good job of keeping it clean and hygienic.
3. Concealing the dog's emotions
Some dogs are docked in order to conceal their emotions and confuse their enemies, because during a fight it is very easy to tell from the tail whether the dog is afraid or ready.
It is worth noting that not all dogs need to have their tails docked, and the docking standards differ among different breeds. For example, the Brussels Griffon is docked at 1/3 of the tail; the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's docked length must not exceed 1/3 of the total length; the Poodle is docked at 1/3; and the Standard Schnauzer retains a length of between 1 and 2 inches.
2. How should a dog be cared for after tail docking?
1. Do not let it lick the wound
After tail docking, the dog will feel some pain and may lick its own wound. You need to pay constant attention and not let it lick, because constant licking of the wound will not only allow bacteria to invade but also slow down wound healing.
2. Do not bathe it
Before the wound on the dog's tail has completely healed, it is best not to bathe it. Do not let the dog get its whole body wet, otherwise the wound may become infected.
3. Reduce outings
While the dog's tail still has a wound, try not to go out, which can reduce the chances of it sitting down in environments with more bacteria and can also prevent the wound on the tail from being hurt while playing with other dogs.
It is worth noting that if it is only for the sake of making your pet dog look a little more attractive, then it is better not to dock its tail. This practice is a bit cruel, and dogs with tails look very cute too. If you must dock the tail, it is best to have it handled at a professional pet hospital.