Expert: Jannie Balliett - 6/9/2009

Question
Hi Jannie I have a 15 week old male boxer and his tail is longer than the normal length of a docked tail. I asked my vet if he could dock it more when I have him neutered. The vet said yes and agreed the tail would look better shorter.Since he will under when this happens will he wake up in pain and can this lead to any health concerns?

Answer
I would really like to see a picture or know how long "is longer than normal."

My Boxers have 3 inch tails. Any shorter is called a "nib."

I prefer the longer and always dock the puppies longer. It covers their rectum when laid down.

If you want to dock it more-- he will have stitches (cat gut- very crude) and will have to have them removed within 10 days.

You will have to watch for signs of infection-- and keep the pup from nibbling at the tail. A good surgical skin cleanser used to rinse it twice a day and a triple antibiotic ointment aids in preventing infection at that age.

He will not have much discomfort, but it will itch as it heals, and if he sits on it, it will hurt.


Send a picture-- and go Online and Google "Boxers tails" and "docking Boxers tails."