should all english springer spaniels have tails docked?

Question

I do not want to do this, will this make my dog look dumb, if I do not?

Answer 1

Don't do it if the dog is more than 8 days old... The Spaniels look wonderful with their full plumage!
I think it won't be much longer before USA adopts the same laws banning cropping docking as other countries.
Interesting article> http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/information/poppysopinions/taildocking/

Answer 2

If you do not want to show your animal do what you want.

Doberman pinschers with long soft ears and a tail are a very different animal from the pointed eared docked tail gestapo beast.

An Old English Sheepdog with its full sweeping tail is just the right height to sweep coffee tables clear with their enthusiasm.

Bouvier des Flandres have their ears and tails done or not done according to the owner's whim.

All of these moderations are human and in most cases have no use. Although, when the sheepdog worked with the flock the tail was docked to help it blend in with the sheep. It also gave the enemy less to grab. But that is not necessary today.

If you do keep your dog individual, be prepared to be stopped at least 10 000 in the animal's life to be asked, "what breed of dog is that ?". LOL Fore warned is forearmed.

Answer 3

There is nothing wrong with or cruel about docking a dogs tail. they are docked because the ESS is supposed to be a working/hunting breed. This was it's original purpose.

I will say that if your dog is an older dog, it's probably best to leave it alone at this point however. Docking is generally done to pups who are 3 days old. I have seen it done and it's one quick little yelp, and then that's it. The puppy doesn't even whine.

As the poster above me said, please do not listen to those who use ANTHROPOMORPHISM to tell you why you shouldn't do something.

Well, the poster above me is no longer there.

Answer 4

purely a personal decision...it is a procedure that requires the dog to under anesthesia, which can be risky in and of itself, unless you do it while the puppy is under 10 days old, I suggest 8 days, there is a lot of controversy on the matter .....the truth is a dog's tail is not an essential part (for it is patently obvious that a dog can live quite happily without a tail, both physically and emotionally)..what do you prefer...is it worth it to you...is it that important to you?....I say you aren't going to love the dog merely for the tail alone....you are going to love the dog for the dog...God Bless!

Answer 5

I don't think any dog should have its tail docked - it is not necessary. In Australia I think they have started to make it illegal to tail dock unless for medical reasons. They were born with tails and that's the way they should live.

Answer 6

Docking tails &cropping ears is basicaly done due to peoples wanting a animal that is mutilated - some people clam long dog tails batthings off coffee tablesetc & thats their reason to doc tails - which is sickening it's like choppingkids arms off cause they like touching things -- keep your dogs taillong & un cut iit will be much happier !!

Answer 7

I don't agree with docking, either. And what dog looks "dumb" with a tail?:) Just because it's not what every other ESS looks like....well, at least you'll have a unique one....happy with its tail:)

Answer 8

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!!!
This is such a horrible thing to do to your dog! imaine if someone cut your arm off cause they thought you would look better with out it! Not to mention the fact that it is now illegal

Answer 9

You'd be a much better owner to your dog if you didn't mutilate it for the sake of looks. I'm sure your dog would appreciate it. Plus, think of it as another aspect of your dog's uniqueness.

Answer 10

don't do that