What is your personal preference and opinion about puppies having their tails docked and dew claws removed?

Answer 1

Tail docking was first introduced to prevent tail injuries in working dogs. The operation is performed on very young puppies (usually around 4 days old) and many supporters of the operation claim that the puppies hardly feel it if it is done correctly. However, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that the puppies endure severe pain and the tail is more sensitive to further pain in later life. For this reason, I do not think that puppies should be docked purely to meet the Breed Standard or for showing. I do feel, however, that docking the tail whilst the puppy is only young to prevent work injuries is much more humane than allowing a working dog to repeatedly injure its tail. As for dew claw removal, I personally feel that this operation can be justified as these useless digits often become ingrown, torn or infected if left naturally. My dog has had her dew claws removed, and she does not appear to have been negatively affected.