Australian Shepherd Tails: Natural Bobtails, Docking Debate & More (2024)

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Are you wondering why some Australian Shepherds have tails and others don’t?

You’ve come to the right place. We’ll explain everything you need to know about Aussie tails, from natural bobtails to the controversial practice of tail docking.

Are Australian Shepherds Born With Tails?

Australian Shepherds are born with tails.

About 20% of Aussies are born with a natural bobtail due to a specific gene.

This bobtail gene is similar to the merle coat pattern gene in that it’s an incomplete dominant trait.

Puppies only need one copy of the gene to be born with a bobtail, and breeding for this trait can be risky.

Keep in mind that the bobtail gene doesn’t determine the exact length or shape of the tail.

Common Characteristics of Australian Shepherd Tails

Now that you know Australian Shepherds can be born with tails, let’s explore the common characteristics of their tails.

The length of an Australian Shepherd’s tail varies, with natural tails typically measuring between 10 to 15 inches or longer. However, due to breed standards and other factors, many Aussies have their tails docked to be 4 inches or shorter.

In terms of tail type, the majority of Australian Shepherds fall into one of two categories: natural bobtails (NBT) or docked tails. The NBT gene is an incomplete dominant trait, meaning a puppy only needs one copy of the gene to be born with a natural bobtail. About 1 in 5 Aussies are born with this tail type, which is usually around a quarter length or longer.

The shape of an Aussie’s tail can vary, but it typically tapers to the end. The tail may be carried in a gentle curve or with a slight upward hook at the tip. Some Aussies have straight tails, while others may have a slight kink or curve, which is considered a malformation by breed standards.

When it comes to color, the tail of an Australian Shepherd typically matches the color of the dog’s coat, often featuring a combination of merle, black, red, or white. The texture of the tail fur is generally smooth and sleek, in keeping with the overall appearance of the breed.

Natural Bobtail Vs. Docked Tails in Australian Shepherds

Now that you’re familiar with the characteristics of Australian Shepherd tails, let’s talk about the debate surrounding natural bobtails (NBT) and docked tails in this breed. About 20% of Aussies are born with a natural bobtail, and it’s all due to genetics. The NBT gene is incomplete dominant, so a puppy only needs one copy to sport a bobtail. However, breeding specifically for bobtails can be tricky. It can increase the risk of health issues and limit the gene pool.

On the other hand, many Australian Shepherds have their tails docked shortly after birth, primarily for aesthetic reasons or to prevent tail injuries. This practice has been a part of the breed’s history, especially for working dogs and show dogs, but it’s becoming less common as natural tails gain popularity. Docking is a personal choice, and you need to weigh the pros and cons for your dog’s individual needs and lifestyle.

Historical Context of Tail Docking in Australian Shepherds

The tradition of docking Australian Shepherds‘ tails has a long history, dating back to Roman times when it was believed to prevent rabies.

However, the specific practice of docking Aussie tails to conform to breed standards is a more recent development, beginning in the 1950s with the establishment of AKC breed standards.

Docking was initially done for both aesthetic and practical reasons, as the breed’s traditional blunt or kinked tails were considered undesirable, and long tails could potentially lead to injuries for working dogs.

Today, the decision to dock an Aussie’s tail is a personal one, with some breeders choosing to leave their dogs’ tails intact to preserve their natural beauty and functionality.

Health Considerations of Australian Shepherd Tail Docking

If you’re thinking about breeding bobtailed Aussies, there are some health considerations to keep in mind. While the natural bobtail trait is desirable to some, breeding specifically for bobtails can increase the risk of certain health issues, like spina bifida, and limit the gene pool, potentially leading to other health complications.

Breeding Risks

Breeding bobtails isn’t without its challenges. Here are some health considerations to keep in mind:

1. Spina Bifida: Breeding for bobtails can increase the risk of this serious birth defect.
2. Limited Gene Pool: Breeding bobtails can reduce genetic diversity, leading to potential health issues down the line.
3. Health Complications: While a natural bobtail is cute, it’s important to prioritize health and temperament over tail length when breeding.

Pain Debate

The ethical debate surrounding tail docking and puppy pain is a complex one.

Some argue that puppies don’t feel pain during the procedure, as their nervous system isn’t fully developed.

However, others disagree, stating that the puppies do experience pain and that it can be a traumatic experience for them.

With no definitive answer, it’s a matter of personal belief and values.

Tail Function

The Australian Shepherd’s tail is a powerful tool for communication and expression. A wagging tail conveys happiness and excitement, while a tucked tail signals fear or anxiety. A high tail indicates confidence and alertness, and a low tail shows submission. Understanding these tail emotions helps owners better understand their dog’s mood and strengthens their bond.

Although some owners believe that tail docking impacts a dog’s balance and coordination, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Breeding Implications for Bobtailed Australian Shepherds

Breeding bobtailed Australian Shepherds involves a few key considerations, especially regarding health, ethics, and the AKC breed standard. The gene responsible for bobtails can lead to serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of spina bifida in puppies. Breeding for bobtails can also limit the gene pool and potentially impact the overall health of the litter.

From an ethical standpoint, responsible breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs over specific physical traits. While the AKC breed standard doesn’t disqualify natural bobtails, it emphasizes that the tail should be in balance with the dog’s overall structure.

Understanding Australian Shepherd Tail Wagging Signals

Now that you’re familiar with the implications of breeding bobtailed Australian shepherds, let’s shift our focus to understanding the tail wagging signals of these fascinating dogs.

As you may know, a dog’s tail isn’t just an appendage; it’s a powerful means of communication. By paying attention to the different ways your Aussie wags its tail, you can gain valuable insights into their mood and emotions.

For instance, a big, carefree wag accompanied by eye contact and enthusiastic jumping is often a sign of greeting or affection. On the other hand, a tucked tail can indicate fear or anxiety, while a high-held, rigid tail may signal aggression or alertness.

Additionally, the position of the tail in relation to the body can provide clues about your dog’s emotional state. For example, a tail held slightly down with gentle, backward wagging could mean your Aussie is curious but unsure. Conversely, a tail tucked between the legs with slight movement often indicates nervousness or fear, especially when accompanied by whining, crying, or shaking.

Australian Shepherd Tail Grooming and Maintenance Tips

Now that you’ve learned to interpret your Aussie’s tail language, it’s time to focus on tail grooming and hygiene. Here are some tips to keep your Aussie’s tail looking and feeling its best:

1. Aussies with long tails need regular brushing and de-shedding to prevent matting and keep the tail clean and free from debris.
2. Pay extra attention to tail hygiene, especially if your Aussie has a long tail. Make sure to clean the area around the tail, including the base of the tail and the hindquarters, to prevent skin irritation and infection.
3. If your Aussie has a natural tail, be mindful of potential tail injuries, especially when they’re playing or running through brush or tall grass. Regular trimming of the tail hair can help prevent this.
4. When bathing your Aussie, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to maintain the natural oils in their coat and avoid drying out their skin. This will help keep their tail hair healthy and shiny.

Tail Docking Debate: Should You Dock Your Aussie’s Tail?

Should You Dock Your Aussie’s Tail?

The decision to dock your Australian Shepherd’s tail is a personal one, and there are various factors to weigh, including ethics, tradition, health, safety, and aesthetics.

Factor	Consideration
Ethics	Some view tail docking as inhumane, arguing that it causes unnecessary pain and trauma to puppies.
Tradition	Tail docking has a long history, dating back to Roman times, and is often done to conform to breed standards, such as those set by the AKC.
Health	While docking is generally safe when performed by a qualified veterinarian, there are risks, including infection and healing complications.

If your Aussie already has a tail, it’s best to leave it as is. For those choosing a puppy, think about skipping docking unless there are specific circumstances that make it necessary. Docking can be beneficial for working dogs in certain environments, but it’s not a requirement for family companion dogs.

Ultimately, the decision to dock or not comes down to individual circumstances and preferences. Research the pros and cons, and choose what’s best for your dog’s lifestyle and needs. Both docked and naturally-tailed Aussies make wonderful companions, and their tail length doesn’t define their capabilities or health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)