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Post by makysek on Mar 9, 2009 10:30:04 GMT 1
Hello, I have this dilemma. I am planning a litter for this spring. We are still allowed to dock in the CZ. Originally I was not planning to dock at all due to the show restriction in surrounding countries. But I have now some buyers who would like to have a docked puppy. I am considering whether I shall dock one pup only just for them... But then the puppy could be handicapped if they wanted to attend some shows abroad. What if I dock the pup that would appear to have the best conformation at the end? To be honest, I do not believe that these buyers would go hunting that often with the dog as they are not hunters so I really do not understand why they insist on a docked dog...  |
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Post by Irena on Mar 9, 2009 11:08:01 GMT 1
This is a dilemma indeed.  Well, with my first litter I thought a LOT about it (also asking other opinions and seeing through all the options) and decided not to dock (regulations, etc etc, puppies being exported where it's not allowed to show or even import docked dogs). They are now nearing their 2 year birthday, and I have personally seen tail injuries on 3 out of the 7 puppies. The last one was two days ago when our "son" was staying with us and injured it while enthusiastically hitting the tail against the snow/ice as I was giving him the "sit" command. For another dog from this litter it took longer than 2 months to heal the tip of the tail which was initially just a tiny scratch. I have tried to follow the "green" road but I am seriously considering docking the next litter. I care for their well being and don't want to cause them (and their owners) unnecessary problems, expenses, stress and direct harm to their health if it gets seriously infected. It's just not necessary, they've been docked for a hundred years before these new "humane" rules. |
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Post by Irena on Mar 9, 2009 11:09:05 GMT 1
Actually it's great that you started this topic (and welcome to the board!), I'd love to hear other breeders' opinions.
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Post by weima on Mar 9, 2009 12:12:32 GMT 1
We have a docking ban in the UK but if the puppies are likely to be worked then the puppies can be docked as long as the breeder has evidence that they work their dogs.
I show & work my dogs but the new law states that any docked dog born after 6 April 2007 cannot attend a show where the public pay to watch [Crufts for example].
I have docked 2 litters since the ban & the demand for docked puppies is much greater than the supply.
As long as the law allows me to I shall continue to dock.
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