Have you observed that not all Pitbulls have the same tail shape and size? Some have wrapped tails, some have naturally straight ones, and others have them cut off.
Cutting a pitbull’s tail is what we know as tail docking. It’s a century-old fad that people in the modern world still follow.
But why are pitbull tails docked? Well! There are different reasons. Some do it to show the dog’s status while others do it on a vet’s recommendation.
Some also consider it as a cosmetic enhancement.
Here, we will learn about the types of pitbull tails, the tail docking procedure, and why people do it.
Types of Pitbull Tails
This dog breed is known for different tail types, where the one they get depends on their bloodline.
Some are born with straight tails that are short and broad at the base, creating a triangular shape with a taper down to the point.
Others may have wrapped tails that slope down towards the base to form a corkscrew shape. Newborns have flexible tails that become rigid as they age, forming a fixed shape.
However, long or way tails aren’t a characteristic of this breed. If your pitbull’s tail is like this one, breeders might see it as a fault.
Still, these tails can promote a dog’s health because of their flexibility, allowing the canine to wag it with ease.
Definition of tail docking
It is a medical process that involves removing the tail of a dog completely or cutting it short.
Some historical documents suggest that tail docking started in Rome as a measure to protect the spread of rabies.
In the 1800s, tail docking was considered a mark of the dog’s status. A dog with docked tail belonged to the class of working animals. Those with non-docked tails were pets.
Today, many people still follow the traditional fad. However, most do it following a veterinarian’s recommendation to treat or prevent some health problem.
The Process of Tail Docking
Before jumping to the process, read this. Tail docking is a stressful and painful process for dogs. It affects the dog’s balance, senses, and mood.
It comprises the use of various surgical scissors to cut the tail. Alternatively, a rubber band is tied to the base of the tail that prevents blood flow and causes the tail to fall.
Tail docking is done immediately after the birth of the dog. Later, if a vet recommends, tail docking is done when some health problem arises.
Also, the recovery time for the process totally depends on the reason why the tail is being cut.
Is it Legal?
Do you feel that hurting a living being for fun or display of status should be legal? Of course, it isn’t. If tail docking is done as a cosmetic treatment, it’s not legal in the US.
However, since the process is stressful and painful for dogs, it’s allowed only if done for medical purposes. Even for that, a vet’s recommendation is required.
So, if your dog is suffering from a serious health issue due to its tail, take it to an experienced veterinarian for assessment.
Let the vet decide if docking should be done. However, you should evaluate the cons and pros of this process before proceeding.
Why are Pitbull Tails Docked?
So far, we have been talking about tail docking in Pitbulls. We mentioned medical and cosmetic reasons for doing this.
Now, let’s dig a bit deeper into the subject “why are pitbull tails docked?”
One of the major health issues Pitbulls face due to their tail is tail pocket infection. It is a skin’s wrinkled flap under the tail of the dog.
Since this area isn’t easy to clean. The accumulation of dirt, bacteria and dead skin most likely lead to an infection in dogs.
And when your dog is infected, it may show signs like itchiness, swelling, and red skin around the tail. The dog can also exhibit distinctive bad odor and huge pain.
A sure-shot way to prevent this infection is by keeping the tail pocket area dry and clean. But when the issue shows up, most vets suggest tail docking.
Another common issue that a Pitbull tail may cause is hemivertebrae. It’s a hereditary situation that causes spin problems and affects the ability of the dog to perform.
Weakness in the back legs that make it hard for the dog to walk is a symptom. It also causes huge pressure on the pet’s spinal cord and loss of bladder function.
Pitbulls with wrapped tails are more likely to suffer from this situation. However, you can protect yours by ensuring responsible breeding.
Again, when a dog starts suffering from hemivertebrae, tail docking is the available treatment with the vet’s recommendation.
Wrap Up
Are you still planning to get your pet’s tail docked? You shouldn’t after reading this about why are pitbull tails docked?
Unless it’s medically necessary, cutting your dog’s tail might land you in trouble. However, a few places still allow docking the tail legally but that doesn’t mean you should do it.
FAQs
Why do Pitbulls get their tails docked?
Since traditional times, enhancing the dog’s strength has been known as the main reason for dog owners to dock the tails of their Pitbulls.
Also, docking has been known as a practice to differentiate the rich from the poor.
Many dog owners dock the tails of their Pitbulls without knowing the actual reason. They only follow other pitbull owners and have observed them doing so.
Are you supposed to cut Pitbull’s tails?
In short, you shouldn’t. Changing the dog’s look is the main reason for docking and cropping the tail.
However, many dog owners may not know that tail docking can also pose unwanted risks.
The docked tail can lead to nerve tumors or neuroma. Moreover, it can also cause pain and make the Pitbull go snappy on touching the tail.
Probably, that’s why a vet’s recommendation is required to go for the tail docking procedure.
How to take care of the pitbull’s tail?
Keeping the tail area clean and dry is the key to taking care of your pitbull’s tail.
Use a soft wet cloth or wipes to clean any dirt that collects in that area. Lift the tail to effectively reach the pocket area.
You should also apply some soothing balm to prevent any unwanted dryness.