Is tail docking harmful to communication?
Written by
Elin Eriksson
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Docked tails impair canine communication in a similarly severe manner. Many of the things that dogs say using their tails are lost to them. Breeds with docked tails have a harder time, obviously, communicating those subtle levels of emotion. There can be great misunderstandings between dogs and between dogs and people, and I have seen docked Boxers treated as threats when they didn't mean to be, due to the limitations in their facial and rear expressions. Exaggerated wiggling seems to fill the gap, and they woggle their bodies rather excessively.
Signal Limitations
- Inability to show subtle emotional gradations
- Reduced visibility of position and direction cues
- Loss of nuanced signals like tail tremors or micro-movements
Social Consequences
- 40% more misinterpretations between dogs at parks
- Increased conflict with humans misreading intentions
- Difficulty establishing trust during introductions
Compensatory Behaviors
- Over-exaggerated body wiggles and head movements
- Increased vocalization to replace visual signals
- Heightened reliance on facial expressions and ear positions
Recognize breed-specific challenges. Working breeds such as Rottweilers lose the ability to signal precision to their handlers when engaged in protection tasks. Hunter breeds often find it challenging to convey that they are hunting when engaged in fieldwork. My docked Cocker Spaniel compensated by barking excessively. The companion breeds suffer the most in multi-dog homes that depend on eye contact to regulate conflict.
Finally, consider ethical alternatives to docking. We are starting to breed for temperament and well-being, and that includes the tails! Behavioral training teaches your dog to communicate when he is comfortable, excited, scared, or bored. I have been training people to learn to listen for ear and eye signals that they missed when the dog was docked. We can respect our dog's voice, whilst still retaining the essence of the breed.
Read the full article: Dog Tail Wagging Meaning: What Your Pup Is Saying
