The tails of some dog breeds (such as boxers, airedales, rottweilers and fox terriers) have been traditionally docked for many years. These dogs don't look strange with a tail. They are still the same dogs but have a full tail to wag like Labradors, collies and beagles.
Tail docking or ear cropping can only be carried out in Victoria by a registered veterinary practitioner for therapeutic reasons (for the health or welfare of the animal). Docking (in relation to the tail of a dog) means the amputation, removal or shortening of the tail, other than the shortening of the tail hairs.
In the case of the Australian Shepherd pup, tail docking is a procedure that benefits the life of the dog. A shorter tail prevents potential breaking later in life and ensures a cleaner and more sanitary lifestyle for the dog and its owner.
In 2004, tail docking for non-therapeutic reasons was banned across Australia. Since then it has been illegal to dock dogs' tails unless there is a veterinary medical reason for the operation.
On the other hand, he says, “research shows that an intact tail is unlikely to become injured, and if it does, injuries are usually minor and heal easily.” Research shows that at least 80 percent of dogs won't get ear infections, “and the breeds that are most likely to get them, such as cocker spaniels and poodles, don ...
Regardless of the approach used, the timing remains the same. Tail docking should be performed on newborn puppies between 2 and 5 days old.
Survey data indicate that preventive tail docking of pet dogs is unnecessary. Therefore tail docking of non-working dogs, even if their breed was originally developed for working purposes, is considered a cosmetic procedure unless evidence exists to the contrary.
It's a Standard of the Breed
In Australian Shepherds, that's a docked tail. While normal tails don't preclude entry into these events, many dog owners and breeders have found they face penalization or don't win because of their dog's original tail length.
Many Have Naturally Short Tails
In addition to having a genetic predisposition for heterochromia, Aussies have a one-in-five chance of being born with a naturally bobbed tail. Ranchers purposely bred Aussies that had these naturally short tails because they are safer when it comes to herding.
Traditionally, a Rottweiler's tail was docked (cut short) so it would not get in the way when the dog performed certain tasks, such as pulling a cart. If a working dog's tail is docked, it cannot get caught in something or be stepped on. Tails are also docked for visual appeal and home safety.
While intelligent and hardworking, the Australian Shepherd can still be a goofy and loving family pet. If you are considering adding this handsome breed to your family, it is always important to know what illnesses are prevalent among the breed.
Natural bobtail is a naturally occurring mutation in the T-box transcription factor T gene resulting in a shortened tail. Phenotype: Dogs with natural bobtail have naturally bobbed (shortened) tails.
Cost of Caudectomy in Dogs
Generally, it runs from $10 to $20 per animal. This procedure is paired with the dog's first check-up, which can cost up to $100. If the dog is older, the cost is greatly increased. This is because general anesthesia must be used to perform the caudectomy.
However, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and British Veterinary Association (BVA) maintain that tail docking is painful and may negatively affect the development of a puppy's vulnerable nervous system. Additionally, poorly performed docking can lead to chronic pain.
There are still many breeds all over the world who have their tails docked and many veterinarians willing to do it with as little pain and risk as possible. There is a need for it in many cases and a great desire for it in others.
Tail docking occurs in one of two ways. The first involves constricting the blood supply to the tail with a rubber ligature for a few days until the tail falls off. The second involves the severance of the tail with surgical scissors or a scalpel.
The Aussie's desire to cuddle
Dogs in general are known for being happy, cuddly, sweet, and soothing for a human to pet. Some breeds are, by nature, more affectionate than others. While the Aussie will typically reserve cuddling for one person or a group of trusted people, sometimes he won't want to cuddle at all.
Besides working as herding animals, Aussies serve as police dogs, narcotics detectors and competitors in obedience trials. They also make great family pets. They are a recent addition to the AKC herding group; some Aussie breeders fear AKC recognition may create undue emphasis on appearance over ability.
Australian Shepherds are very good with children and tend to get along well with other pets. They have a very easy-going temperament, making them great family pets as well as herding animals.
Show Affection/Love
Australian Shepherds can often lick you to get your attention. They are very friendly dogs and love to be around people, and appreciate your attention as well as companionship. One of the most common reasons why Australian Shepherds lick is because they want to show their affection for you.
Attention Seekers
Aussies can be very clingy. They crave human companionship and love being included in pretty much everything you do, including being involved in all family activity. Since they require an active lifestyle, they will want to join in everything and anything that is going on around them.
Australian Shepherds wiggle their bodies as a way to show their excitement or happiness for something. If you see an Australian Shepherd wiggling their bodies, they are likely attempting to show you that they are happy and excited about something going on.
Short-docked tails have been associated with increased incidence of rectal prolapse in some studies. Though there is pain associated with tail docking, fly strike can lead to discomfort, pain and eventually death of the lamb.
The dead portion of the tail usually falls off about three days later. This can be likened to slamming your finger in a car door and leaving it there. Puppies undergoing any method of tail-docking squeal and cry, yet advocates assert that the newborn pup's nervous system is unable to feel the pain.