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When to Doc Boxer Tails

Docking tails in boxer dogs is the breed standard and a common practice. Although some consider it cruel, other professional breeders and veterinarians, such as the nonprofit Council of Docked Breeds, believe that it prevents the dog from experiencing pain when it is older. The American Kennel Club also recognizes the practice and considers it "integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health." Boxer tails are heavy and prone to injury, and can contribute to back problems.

Docking Age
- The Council of Docked Breeds, the largest advocate worldwide of docking practices, recommends docking boxer tails when the pup is 2 to 5 days old. At this early stage their tails are not fully developed, making removal a much less painful experience than if it occurs when the dog is an adult. Pups are also better able to handle the shock at this age, and the site will bleed much less. In most cases, the puppies will return to their mothers soon after docking and continue to suckle.
Exceptions
- Although it is possible to surgically remove a boxer's tail when it is an adult, the removal site will experience more bleeding and the dog will have a tendency to pick at the scab, re-injuring the site. The dog also will have to be anesthetized for the procedure. For these reasons, boxer tails are docked shortly after birth, unless the pup does not appear to be healthy. If it is not suckling properly and does not exhibit vitality, the procedure typically is postponed, as the pup may not be able to recover from the stress.
Consequences of Not Docking
- The tail of a boxer is heavier than that most breeds and more prone to become injured. Removing the tail also helps decrease the chance of spondylosis, or arthritis of the spine. Wagging a heavy, thick tail puts more stress on the dog's back. The weight of the tail also keeps back injuries from healing as quickly. Despite the efforts of the Anti-Docking Alliance, the Council of Docked Breeds argues that leaving the tail on the boxer can end up being crueler than removing it an at early age.
Alternatives to Docking
- It is recommended that only professional veterinarians remove the tail surgically. Nonetheless, owners can doc their boxers themselves by using a banding method. A tight rubber band can be placed on the tail several days after birth and kept there until it cuts off circulation and forces the tail to fall off. Although the procedure is legal in most countries, some breeders argue that banding increases the opportunity for infection in the young pups. The American Kennel Club's statement on docking notes that "appropriate veterinary care should be provided."

Animals & Science