Most corgis have their tails docked to keep them in place during training, but some breeds are naturally bobtailed, like Cardigan corgis. However, if you’re considering getting a corgi for yourself, you may be wondering why breeders dock the tails of these dogs. After all, corgis have been popular for herding livestock for centuries, and the long tails may be a burden for the cows to step on. However, recent studies have disproved this theory.
Although tail docking has no scientific basis, it is still common for some corgis. This practice is not necessary for rabies prevention, nor is it necessary for safety. Many corgis do not work in fields all day, so it is unlikely that they would be in danger of injury. Still, the practice is widely practiced for aesthetic purposes and to keep the dog’s appearance in line with breed standards.
Another common reason for docking Corgi tails is to prevent the dog from chasing its tail. It can result in bleeding and hair loss. Also, since Corgis have short legs, cows can step on the tail and injure the dog. However, this is rare and usually preventable with proper training. But it is also a sanitary issue. Corgis must exercise regularly to keep their muscles in shape.
While the American Veterinary Medical Association does not support the practice of docking the tail, many pet owners report that their pups already had their tails docked when they met. Although some people find it to be cruel and inhumane, some say the procedure is perfectly okay for the dog. One dog parent, for example, said that the procedure made her pups cry, so she stopped it. Afterward, the pups seemed happier without the tail.
While most Corgis are born without tails, some are born with them. These „bobtailed” Corgis have short tails. Their tails are actually short due to a mutation in the T-box gene. The mutation affects both sexes equally. In addition, some Corgis may require further docking in order to meet breed standards. This mutation is hereditary, and can be passed on through the generations.
The origin of tail docking is murky. It was initially thought to decrease the risk of contracting rabies. Today, it’s most commonly done to reduce the risk of injuries in working dogs. Interestingly, tail docking is illegal in 36 countries, including the United States. As such, it is important to seek a certified veterinarian before docking your corgi’s tail. Unfortunately, many vets are hesitant to perform the procedure.
Many corporate employers offer additional healthcare to their employees, so they may cover the cost of tail docking as part of their benefits. But if it’s done for cosmetic reasons, it may be in your dog’s best interests to leave it alone. Despite its aesthetic appearance, tail docking does not improve your corgi’s health. The majority of Corgis are happy, healthy, and independent.
In addition to breeding purposes, the practice of tail docking is illegal in many countries. The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association have condemned the practice, and many breeds are naturally tailless. This genetic trait is not unique to Pembroke Welsh Corgi, however. Other breeds such as the Blue Heeler, Brittany Spaniel, and Spanish Waterdog also have natural bobtails.
The tails of Pembroke Welsh corgis may be naturally short or even completely absent. Pembroke corgis are naturally tailles, but will have their tails docked during breeding. AKC rules for breed standards may require them to be tail-less. However, the Pembroke corgi is more common than the Cardigan, and it’s considered more traditional in the US.
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