The undocked tail
~ some call it European-style
The American Standard calls for the docked tail (which should be about 6" long on a full-grown Weimaraner). Tail docking is the American norm; however, there is one exception to this--the Longhair Weimaraner always sports the undocked tail. In Germany, the tail, for the most part, is undocked with very few exceptions. However, in France reports are mixed. Some say the docked tail is preferred; however, others (like in Germany) prefer the undocked. Nevertheless, in many European countries it is many times illegal to dock a tail; and docked tails are not commonplace. This is true in the UK; where you can import a Weimaraner with the docked tail, but you cannot dock the pups raise.
Despite trends, or even the breed standard, people have preferences. The debate rages on about the benefits and the political correctness of tail docking. American hunters, for the most part. favor the docked tail. Tails have been docked to prevent damage (which can occur on a field companion's tail). However, Tyler (even though he is an American) wanted the undocked tail on his Weimaraner Versatile Hunting Companion. Therefore, he turned to OwyheeStar, and they accommodated his wishes.
Choosing the undocked tail means a compromise of a sort, as well as some consideration will take place. It means giving OwyheeStar a larger puppy deposit (up front--at the birth or before), because should something go awry; it will be too late to change the tail--at least without expense, risk, and some puppy discomfort.
Request undocked pups well in advance of when you hope to bring them home. This will help you avoid disappointment. Not every breeder is going to consider this an option. One other note of caution, if you find an undocked puppy, it is almost without exception one you should pass by--only people who have an accidental litter of Weims are likely to understand they need to dock the pup's tails in a timely manner. Ask yourself what else was overlooked?
Despite trends, or even the breed standard, people have preferences. The debate rages on about the benefits and the political correctness of tail docking. American hunters, for the most part. favor the docked tail. Tails have been docked to prevent damage (which can occur on a field companion's tail). However, Tyler (even though he is an American) wanted the undocked tail on his Weimaraner Versatile Hunting Companion. Therefore, he turned to OwyheeStar, and they accommodated his wishes.
Choosing the undocked tail means a compromise of a sort, as well as some consideration will take place. It means giving OwyheeStar a larger puppy deposit (up front--at the birth or before), because should something go awry; it will be too late to change the tail--at least without expense, risk, and some puppy discomfort.
- Tail docking happens during the first week. There are many reasons for this, but waiting until they are older makes it much more difficult on the puppy. That, in and of itself, is good reason to dock early. Nevertheless, think of it as a very minor surgery when done early. Later is becomes more involved (and painful) (requiring anesthesia), and taking longer to heal. The results are not as nice either.
Request undocked pups well in advance of when you hope to bring them home. This will help you avoid disappointment. Not every breeder is going to consider this an option. One other note of caution, if you find an undocked puppy, it is almost without exception one you should pass by--only people who have an accidental litter of Weims are likely to understand they need to dock the pup's tails in a timely manner. Ask yourself what else was overlooked?
