The Decision to Leave Tails Intact

Tail docking and dewclaw removal have long been common practices for working dogs, but in recent years, many veterinarians and breeders around the world have moved away from these procedures. At Edenbright Brittanys, we have made the decision to no longer dock the tails of our Brittanys.

Below is a comprehensive FAQ that addresses common concerns and misconceptions about tail docking. While this is a subject that can spark debate, it is important to note that I have previously docked tails and have dogs with docked tails. I do not believe tail docking is inherently wrong for certain dogs, especially those bred for hunting or show competition. However, since I primarily breed companion dogs rather than hunting or show dogs, I can no longer ethically justify tail docking for my puppies. This decision is based on both personal experience and ethical considerations, not on a judgment of other breeders who continue the practice.

Q: Aren’t sporting dogs with undocked tails at risk for injury during hunts?

A: While it is possible for a dog’s tail to be injured during hunting, the risk depends on the breed and the specific activity. For example, retrievers have thick, strong tails that are left intact. Pointers, on the other hand, have notoriously thin tails, which is often cited as a reason for docking to prevent injury. However, Setters—dogs that perform similarly to Brittanys in the field—keep their long, thin tails without issue. This raises the question of whether tail docking for Brittanys is truly about injury prevention or if it is more about maintaining a traditional breed aesthetic.

Q: If tails aren’t docked to prevent injury, then why dock the tails?

A: Historically, Brittanys were born with naturally short or missing tails. The original breed standard required Brittanys to be tailless, but over time, it became clear that the gene responsible for taillessness was inconsistent. Some Brittanys were born with full tails, while others had short or missing tails. To create uniformity, the American Brittany Club modified the breed standard to allow for surgically docked tails. Today, docking is largely a matter of tradition rather than necessity.

Q: Doesn’t a docked tail make grooming easier?

A: Yes, a docked tail can help prevent burrs from collecting in a Brittany’s feathery tail while hunting in fields or forests. However, this is easily managed by trimming the tail feathers before an outing. Since we do not breed for hunting or show, this concern is not relevant to our breeding program.

Q: I’ve heard the puppies can’t feel the tail docking if done within the first three days of life. If it doesn’t hurt the dog, then what is the harm?

A: Despite common claims that puppies do not feel pain if docking is performed within the first few days of life, scientific research and personal experience suggest otherwise. Puppies have fully developed nerve endings at birth, and they do react strongly to tail docking, often crying out in distress. Additionally, the healing process can take weeks, and there is always a risk of infection. After witnessing this firsthand and consulting multiple veterinarians, I could no longer justify putting my puppies through this unnecessary procedure.

Q: If a docked tail is standard, then shouldn’t you, as an ethical breeder, be breeding to that standard?

A: Breed standards play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of purebred dogs, including aspects such as size, coat, and temperament. However, when it comes to tail docking, there is no genetic way to consistently produce tailless Brittanys. Instead, docking is an artificial alteration that mimics a genetic trait that was once more common. Because tail docking does not affect the dog’s health or working ability, I do not believe it is necessary for companion dogs.

Q: Why don’t more Brittany breeders keep the tails?

Many breeders are beginning to reconsider tail docking, and some now offer buyers the choice to keep or dock the tail. However, since our program focuses on temperament placement, puppies are not chosen by their new owners until they are six weeks old—well past the age at which tail docking can be performed. For this reason, we do not offer the option.

Q: If my Brittany’s tail isnt docked, will he/she be able to compete in AKC sporting events?

A: Yes. While the American Brittany Club’s breed standard prefers docked tails, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not require cosmetic alterations for participation in most events. The only exception is conformation showing, where the traditional docked tail is preferred, though there is a growing movement to remove cosmetic alterations from breed standards altogether.

The AKC stands behind breed clubs choice to have standards that require cosmetic alteration, stating that : The American Kennel Club recognizes that ear cropping, tail docking, and dewclaw removal, as described in certain breed standards, are acceptable practices integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health.

Q: Do you think tail docking is unethical or cruel?

A: My perspective is that tail docking is unnecessary for companion dogs but not inherently unethical for those bred for specific working purposes. While puppies do experience discomfort during the procedure, they do not appear to suffer long-term effects. Ultimately, I believe every breeder must make their own ethical decision based on their breeding goals and values. For me, the well-being of my puppies as companions outweighs the tradition of tail docking.

The short and simple of it is that I, as a breeder of strictly pet quality puppies, cannot justify it for myself – and that doesn’t mean passing judgement on others.

Q: But will my Brittany look good with a tail?

A: Beauty is subjective, but I believe Brittanys with tails are stunning. While many people are accustomed to the traditional “wiggly nub,” a full tail adds grace and elegance to the breed. Feedback from Brittany owners and enthusiasts suggests that tailed Brittanys are just as beloved and visually appealing as their docked counterparts.

Conclusion:

At Edenbright Brittanys, our decision to leave tails intact is based on careful consideration of our breeding goals and the best interests of our puppies. While we respect other breeders’ choices, we believe that for our companion-focused breeding program, tail docking is unnecessary. We encourage prospective owners to consider the beauty, function, and individuality of a Brittany with a full tail and embrace this natural aspect of the breed.