How to Dock a Miniature Schnauzer

The miniature schnauzer is a dog breed that belongs to the terrier group, recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1926. According to the American Kennel Club Standard, the tail of the miniature schnauzers should be docked, so that it is "clearly visible over the backline of the body when the dog is in proper length of coat." In the past, schnauzers were bred as ratters and they had their tails removed to prevent bites from rats. Today, the removal of a part of the dog's tail is necessary only if you intend to have a show dog.

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for a veterinarian or breeder before the puppy is born to perform the procedure. Most breeders recommend performing the tail docking when the dog is between 1 and 5 days old. This reduces the dog's pain and potential complications, because the bones in the tail are not fully developed at this stage.

    • 2

      Take your puppy to the veterinarian in a kennel and keep it calm.

    • 3

      The veterinarian will tie a string around the tail. Only the dock is removed, which is the bony part of the dog's tail.

    • 4

      Monitor the dog's tail. The blood flow is restricted to the dock of the tail and it should fall off within a few days.