Tail Docking in Russian Toy Terriers

The standard requiring tail docking in Toy Terriers has sparked a lot of opposition from veterinarians. Many dog breeders and simply lovers of four-legged friends also have a negative attitude towards this issue. After all, when considering the standard for the English Toy Terrier, having a tail is mandatory. However, for the smooth-haired miniature Toy and the Russian long-haired Toy Terrier, the tail must be docked. Although some dog shows (especially abroad) are already accepting dogs with tails and giving them high scores. So, as you can see, there is no consensus on this matter.

Docking itself eliminates a single problem – the bending of the tail. But at the same time, a tail-less Toy Terrier appears somewhat "naked" in the rings, as the luxurious flag-like appendage (as seen in Russian Toy Terriers) hides the visible flaws found in standard "samples" of the decorative breed. Docking allows for a thorough examination of the dog's body, revealing any elongation, short legs, or other flaws. Judges' attention shifts to the shortcomings or their absence in your pet's physique. And if your beloved's body possesses ideal proportions, then a docked tail will only highlight the beauty of the miniature dog.

Does a Toy Terrier Need a Docked Tail?

The answer to the question "Why are tails docked in Toy Terriers?" lies in the breed standard. The requirements for a decorative dog state that the tail should be short-docked, but undocked is also permissible. Docked means that the animal is left with two to three tail vertebrae. Undocked – should preferably be in the shape of a sickle and held above the spine line. If you're curious, judging at dog shows determines the standard for an undocked Toy Terrier based on how the tail appears when the dog is in a crouched position. It should be positioned where the hour hand would be on a clock face – between "half past twelve" and "half past one." The necessity of keeping the undocked tail in position during the show trot can hinder the dog's movements.

But! Let’s once again divide our miniature Toys into smooth-haired and long-haired, and talk about the Russian Toy Terrier. The long-haired dog has won the hearts of foreign dog breeders so much that for this variety, tail docking has even been banned for Toy Terriers with beautiful fur. Our breeders, knowing the esteemed judges' love for tailed beauties, believe that there is no need to dock the tails of long-haired Toy Terriers. As you can see, opinions differ.

When Are Toy Terriers' Tails Docked?

You have decided to dock the tail of a puppy and are wondering when it is best to dock a Toy Terrier's tail. If you listen to the opinions of veterinarians on what day tails are docked in Toy Terriers, it turns out that the ideal time is literally right after the little pups are born. The first week after birth seems to be designated for this. The thing is, a newborn puppy does not feel pain during the docking procedure, as the nerve endings are just beginning to form. Yes, the puppy may whine during docking, but this is more of a reflex reaction to being held upside down (the docking is performed by lifting the puppy and turning it upside down).

Docking is surgery, and only a vet should perform it, at any age of the puppy. Only a specialist can properly perform the procedure, treat the wound and professionally stitch the docked tail of a Toy Terrier. In many countries docking without a medical reason is prohibited by law — before deciding, check the rules in your country and at the shows you plan to attend.

Do not let the puppy lick the wound excessively after the surgery, and bring it to the follow-up checks the vet schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to dock the tail of a Russian Toy Terrier?

Docking the tail of a Russian Toy Terrier depends on the breed standards, which require a short tail but also allow for an undocked option.

When is the best time to dock a Toy Terrier puppy's tail?

The best time to dock the tail is considered to be the first week after birth when the puppies are still very small.

How does tail docking affect dog shows?

Tail docking can hide flaws and draw judges' attention to the proportions of the body; however, some shows are already accepting undocked dogs.

Why are there differing opinions on tail docking?

Differing opinions on tail docking arise from variations in breed standards and judges' preferences at dog shows.

What is considered the ideal tail for a Toy Terrier?

The ideal tail for an undocked Toy Terrier should be in the shape of a sickle and positioned above the spine line.