I did learn a little more about the history - for docking tails.
It seems that many working breeds (hunting dogs - our little terriers, etc.) were better able to perform the work that they were bred to do -- with shorter tails. Their longer tails impeded the work they needed to - going through thick vegetation, burrowing into small areas, etc.
So for many decades - the tails of many working breeds were docked.
However - more recently, many of these dogs have become "only pets or show dogs" -- and it is no longer need to have their tails docked.
And - because it is no longer necessary - it is becoming more popular (and more sensible not to do it.)
I, -- who have been in love with all breeds for more than 60 years, have become so used to seeing certain breeds with docked tails - that some breeds just don't look "quite right" to me with longer tails.
However, I am in total in agreement with stopping this unnecessary practice. And, I'm sure I can soon get used to all dogs with longer tails.
Carol Jean |