Doberman Pinscher Tail Docking: Why, When, and How Much?

One of the first decisions you'll need to make as a new Doberman owner is if you're going to have your Doberman's tail docked, also known as "bobbed". First, you should know why Dobermans have their tails docked, how the tail docking procedure is performed, if docking is legal where you live, at what age it's done, and how much it usually costs. This is something that should always be performed by a qualified veterinarian with experience in this practice. Tail docking is usually done when the dog is between 1 to 7 days of age, although earlier is better. It's performed either surgically with a scalpel or scissors, or via a ligature (or a small rubber band) wrapped around the tail to cut off circulation. Tail docking typically costs between $20-$40 for newborn puppies or $500-$900 for an adult Doberman. Make sure you communicate with your breeder before your puppy is born if you want to leave the tail natural as most breeders in the United States will automatically dock the tails of all their litters soon after birth.

Also, check out my two videos all about Doberman ear cropping:

As most Doberman owners know all too well, not every dog product works well for this unique breed. That's why I maintain a list of the best products I've found so far for Dobermans.

Follow Doberman Planet!

#dobermanpinscher #dobermantail #doberman #dobermanplanet

--------------
DISCLAIMER
--------------
Doberman Planet specializes in the Doberman breed. We have significant knowledge of this breed and provide insight into the breed as a whole, but not on the individual dog. Individual dogs and circumstances vary, and therefore your experience may be different. We are not veterinarians, canine nutritionists, or behaviorists. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian, canine nutritionist, or other professional before making any decisions regarding the care, health, or diet of your dog. We often rely on the research, studies, and publications of experts while presenting certain related topics outside our field of expertise. This video presents the personal opinions and experiences of those seen speaking and may contain partial, anecdotal, or incomplete information. Their opinions do not necessarily represent those of Doberman Planet, its owners, employees, contractors, partners, affiliates, or other people or organizations associated with us. Watching this video does not supersede your responsibilities of doing your own research and due diligence.

© 2021 DOBERMAN PLANET LLC

[dimitrivos]

I dont really like Most people who have channels about a their favorite dog breed because they dont really do a lot of research, think their dog is the best and just say want they think is right. But i really do think you are amazing. You do your research verry well and are just a really nice dude.

I would love to own a dobermann when i am older, and have more time

[kingcornelius]

I do appreciate a lot the quiet and non-partisan way you're talking about this subject. Although I do approve both ear and tail cropping, I also recognise that we need to respect both the dogs and everyone who cares about them, so this is a great way to calmly express the reasons behind this choice 👍🏻

[sharkxl]

I’m only 12 and have always wanted a Doberman and when I get older I just can’t wait to get one your videos are very help full thanks you so much

[Flashpoint]

I had a Doberman without a docked tail that was so excited to see me that he repeatedly fractured his tail by hitting it against a wall by my door whenever I came home. My position is that the tail should be docked, however, it should be a personal decision.

[Clapperz]

I should have watched this video before taking my baby to a breeder for getting her tail cropped, they used a rubber band to stop the bleeding and they left the wound open and it got infected with her bone popping out I was so upset and I had to stay strong but we took her to a vet and now she’s okay she got her small tail bone removed and they stitched the wound. I’m just happy my baby is okay now! Thank you for your informational videos on Dobermans I’ll definitely be watching them more to inform myself on my baby!

[remo]

I’m getting my European Doberman in 5 weeks. Thank you for all your videos and website you created. It is very helpful

[salpherite]

I needed this, we got my Doberman with her tail docked. I tried asking my brother why and I wanted more info. Thank you!

[boysenberry]

Thanks John another great video. The fact you always remain respectful, factual and impartial gives them better validity and value IMO.
At the end of the day, I just love all dobermanns. I’ve had both too

[sahar]

My doberman has both of her tail and ears, she run with me every week while I'm on my 🚲, seriously I can see her tail moves and balance her while running and I can tell you she is the only doberman with a tail in the hood, and she is probably the fastest one of them, even tho it's a female, maybe because I keep her in a good shape, but I'm sure the tail plays a part.

[agustinsalazar]

Im gonna get a dobermann in a week so this channel is a huge help and also entertain

[msgottaneedtoknow]

I can tell you that I have had a Doberman with an undocked tail and it was ALWAYS hitting it against stuff while just wagging- ESPECIALLY in the winter, when it’s really cold. There was a few times that she did this and it bled terribly. Then I had blood splashed all over my walls and everything around because she would wag her tail like crazy before I could contain her and stop the bleeding.

[licittofficial]

One more reason to get it docked. Dobermans usually stand as high as your upper legs or hips, so the tail is at the perfect height to smack you in the groin

[suzannethepatriot]

Both our breeders docked the tails when the dogs were about two days old. Both breeders said that it was an easy painless process. They likened it to clipping your nails because at that young age the nerves are not completely formed yet. Both my breeders were long-time breeders and considered to be amongst the best, so I trust what they shared with me.

[debbiedunn]

I've had dobies with tails docked and one with long tail. I never docked them myself. I got them that way. Like them both ways.

[RoRo-sjbd]

To cut the tail is always an Amputation no matter when it’s done, that’s the medical definition of amputation. It should always be done with anesthesia because it can always hurt. And in Germany it’s not allowed for working dogs in general just for a specific type of hunting dog (German pointers) and just for the puppy’s that get bought by an official hunter they get amputated much longer than a doberman in your country.

[DougalSAFC]

Although I love how the Doberman looks with a docked tail and pointed ears, I’m generally against both. The only legitimate reason to have a tail docked is if the dog works, as it can be trapped and injure the dog. Every other reason is based on human aesthetic, what we think looks best. They should be left how they’re naturally born.

[tonyanderson]

At my vet I got the whole litter done at about 120 for the entire litter no matter how many pups were in the litter on day 2 after birth for tails and dew claws.

[jedikanton]

My Dobermans tail was cut to short and it is very sensitive.... I guess the breeder accidentally did it.. I love her she’s a good girl and I will say again they are one of the best dogs I’ve ever had

[hjmkzyt]

I've owed 2 Dobies. They are the best dog a person can own. However, not every person should have one. They really take a lot of attention - my dogs went just about everywhere with me. They were so easy to train and I could go on and on about how wonderful Dobermans are! They are so sweet and fantastic with children, very, very gentle with the little tots. Great guard dogs too. I'm like you, I can't say enough good things about Dobies. I'm glad you have this channel to help educate people about them. I was told by someone I met that I should get rid of my 5 month old pup because when she grew up she would attack me!!! LOL. But really, people who want a dog so they themselves can seem really macho - no, they aren't a good candidate. Actually, they shouldn't own any dog. I really enjoy your videos. My daughter and I are going to be looking to get a Dobie, hopefully by the first of the year. I was looking for breeders when I found your site. I am concerned that we get a sound dog, physically and mentally. Do you have a list of breeders in Northern California? If so, would you publish it? thanks

[alphadog]

Been waiting for this topic. Thank you Mr.Walter