Some Australian Shepherds (Aussies) lack tails because they are born with a "natural bobtail" (NBT) due to a dominant gene, but most have their tails docked (cut) for traditional working purposes, like preventing injury in livestock or getting caught in brush, though this practice is controversial and banned in many countries. So, you'll see some with full tails (the majority), some naturally short, and some with docked tails, depending on genetics and breeder practices.
In the U.S., it's common to see Aussies without tails because docking is part of the breed standard. But fun fact—about 80% of Aussies are actually born with a full tail! The other 20% are naturally bobtailed. In many countries, like France, Switzerland, and Australia, docking is actually illegal!
One of the unique characteristics of the Australian Shep- herd is that they are not solely a docked tail breed, but also a natural bob-tail breed. Aussies can be born with all varying lengths of tail...from natural bob to full tail...
The breed originated in Australia where it's illegal to dock the tails. That's why the AKC breed standard says they have their tails. Australian shepherds were breed in the states where you can cut off anything you want from a dog with little to no reason. Their breed standard is to have their tails docked due to that.
The veterinary perspective
Across a range of countries, routine tail docking of dogs is considered unacceptable by most veterinarians (83% to 92%) and the general public (68% to 88%).
This list of smartest dog breeds is based on numerous studies done to test the intelligence of dogs.
Mini/American Aussies are different genetically than standards. No matter what their weight is that will always be a mini. Below 18 inches at the shoulder he's a mini. 18 and above he's a standard, according to the AKC.
Tail docking procedures can cause temporary discomfort to Australian Shepherd puppies even though their nervous systems are not quite fully developed yet. While the wound in the tail is healing, minor inflammations and damage to the tissues can cause them pain.
Tail docking is done in modern times either for prophylactic, therapeutic, cosmetic purposes, and/or to prevent injury.
The cost of tail docking in dogs is typically around $20 per puppy, in addition to any exam fees. Because the procedure is cosmetic, insurance companies typically don't cover tail docking.
You can tell if you closely examine the skin on the end of the tail. A bobtail will show smooth without disruption. A docked tail will look slightly pinched. This is by no means perfect, of course.
- Aussie tails have fewer muscles around their tails compared to other herding breeds, meaning they have less control over their tail, again, leading to risk of injury in everyday life. Australian Shepherds have a naturally higher risk of tail -related injuries because of these reasons.
Dog breeds whose tails must be docked to meet the AKC breed standard include the Doberman Pinscher, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Miniature Schnauzer.
Several situations can cause chronic pain after tail docking: a) the dog may experience phantom limb pain of the tail, a common occurrence after any amputation; b) the person amputating the tail may cut through a tail bone instead of between two bones; c) insufficient skin may remain to cover the boney stub; and d) a ...
Final Thoughts: Your Pet Can Thrive After Tail Amputation
Though it may feel like a big step, tail amputation is often the most effective way to end chronic pain, infection, or trauma for your pet. With proper care—and lots of love—most dogs and cats go on to live happy, fully active lives without their tail.
Tail docking is the surgical removal (amputation) of a dog's tail for cosmetic purposes. Tail docking has been illegal in Australia since 2004, as it is an unnecessary surgical procedure associated with significant acute and chronic pain and is detrimental to the welfare of the animals concerned.
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Pets who previously have experienced dislocated joints, or bone, ligament, or tendon trauma have an increased risk for osteoarthritis. In fact, more than 20% of dogs may experience joint problems in their life and more than 40% of cats may suffer from degenerative joint disease.
Dogs don't necessarily understand apologies, but they do understand changes in our behaviour, and if they feel safe or unsafe around us. It's important to apologise right after you've wronged your dog, otherwise they won't understand what all the fuss is about.
German Shepherds are popular in the U.S. for their calm and courageous demeanor and need lots of exercises.
Are Miniature Australian Shepherds Smart? Miniature Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart. These dogs will typically catch on to new tricks and commands in no time.
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Aussies bond strongly to their families and so can be territorial and overprotective of their owners' property, and they can become destructive if left without companionship for long periods too often.
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The "heartbreak breed" refers primarily to the Great Dane, nicknamed this due to their affectionate nature combined with a relatively short lifespan (around 7-10 years) and susceptibility to serious heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), making losing them particularly difficult for their devoted owners. Other giant breeds like Irish Wolfhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards also face significant health challenges, including cancer and heart disease, often earning them similar sentiments from owners.