While cosmetics are part of the reason tails are docked, there is also a medical reason. Like many other breeds whose tails are docked, Dobermans have very thin, brittle tails that are prone to breaking. Enthusiastic wagging can cause painful fractures if the tail hits a hard object. Although the breaks will heal, the tail may not be straight again. Older Dobermans can have arthritic tails due to breakage. Docking is a humane alternative to a lifetime of a crooked, painful tail.
Doberman puppies’ tails are docked a few days after they are born. The pups are not in tremendous pain; their bones are still soft, and the crop takes place between two vertebrae. Good veterinarians pull the skin on the tail down towards the base and then snip to ensure plenty of coverage for the new end of the tail. The excess skin quickly heals over the docked tail and the puppy couldn’t care less. The dogs’ willingness to having their docked tails handled indicates that the docking has traumatized them little. The standard length for a docked tail is 5” or less.
As with any other dog, a Doberman’s docked tail has a language of its own to express emotion. A high, straight tail indicates alertness and interest. As the dog relaxes, his tail lowers to “half mast.” Wagging shows a happy Doberman. A submissive dog lowers his tail, and a frightened or a cowed dog curves it as far under his rump as possible.
Misunderstanding the Doberman’s tail language probably contributes to prejudiced fear of the breed. Since most people are used to long, swishing tails, they assume that the upright position shows an aggressive Dobe. This is not necessarily so; the well-treated, well-mannered Doberman is probably showing that he is watching you and will act if his owner wants or if the situation warrants it (in the owner’s absence). He is watching for you to move suddenly, reach towards his owner, or pull out a strange object. He perceives this kind of behavior as a threat, and will watch you until his owner assures him that you are accepted.
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