Corgis are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world, known for their short legs, long bodies, and adorable personalities. One of the most frequently asked questions about this breed is whether Corgis have tails and why some appear to be born without them. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the differences between the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, discuss tail docking, and address the controversies surrounding the practice.
The Two Types of Corgis and Their Tails
The Corgi breed consists of two distinct types: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. While they may look similar at first glance, they have some key differences, including their tails.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi: The Long-Tailed Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has a long, bushy tail that extends naturally from its body. This tail serves multiple purposes, including helping the dog maintain balance and express emotions through movement. Unlike its Pembroke counterpart, the Cardigan Corgi’s tail is not traditionally docked, and it remains an essential feature of the breed standard.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: The Short-Tailed or Tailless Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is commonly recognized for its absence of a tail or having a very short, stubby tail. While some Pembroke Corgis are naturally born without a tail, most have their tails docked shortly after birth. This has led to the common misconception that Pembroke Corgis are naturally tailless, but in reality, this is often due to human intervention.
Why Are Pembroke Welsh Corgi Tails Docked?
The practice of tail docking in Pembroke Welsh Corgis has a long history, rooted in both tradition and practical reasons. Below are some of the main reasons why docking was historically performed:
1. Herding Tradition
Originally, Corgis were bred as herding dogs, responsible for driving cattle. A long tail was seen as a potential liability, as it could be easily stepped on or injured while working with livestock. Docking the tail helped to reduce the risk of injuries in the field.
2. Conforming to Breed Standards
The American Kennel Club (AKC) and other kennel clubs have long considered a docked tail as part of the breed standard for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. This standardization has led breeders to continue tail docking to meet expectations in dog shows and competitions.
3. Aesthetic and Historical Reasons
Over time, aesthetic preferences played a significant role in the continuation of tail docking. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi with a short or absent tail became an iconic look, making them more distinguishable from their Cardigan counterparts.
The Controversy Surrounding Tail Docking
Although tail docking has been widely practiced, it is now a controversial topic. Many organizations and animal rights activists argue that tail docking is an unnecessary and painful procedure. Here are some key points of the debate:
1. Ethical Concerns
Animal welfare organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) have spoken out against cosmetic tail docking. They argue that the procedure causes unnecessary pain and stress to puppies, as it is performed without anesthesia in most cases.
2. Legal Restrictions
In several countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Europe, tail docking is banned unless performed for medical reasons. This means that Pembroke Welsh Corgis in these regions often retain their natural tails.
3. Functional Impact
A dog’s tail serves important functions, including communication, balance, and expression of emotions. Some argue that docking a Corgi’s tail may hinder its ability to interact with other dogs and its environment effectively.
Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis Ever Born Without Tails?
Some Pembroke Welsh Corgis are naturally bobtailed, meaning they are born with very short tails due to a genetic mutation. However, this is relatively rare, and the vast majority of tail-less Pembroke Corgis have had their tails docked at birth.
The Future of Tail Docking in Corgis
As awareness about animal welfare increases, more dog owners and breeders are choosing to leave Corgis’ tails intact. In some regions, breed standards are being revised to accept natural tails as part of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s appearance. With changing attitudes and stricter regulations, tail docking in Corgis may eventually become a thing of the past.
Conclusion
So, do Corgis have tails? The answer depends on the type of Corgi you are looking at. Cardigan Welsh Corgis always have long tails, while Pembroke Welsh Corgis are often seen without tails due to historical docking practices. However, natural bobtail Pembrokes do exist, though they are less common.
With increasing debates about animal welfare, the practice of tail docking is gradually declining. While some breeders and enthusiasts continue to follow tradition, many countries are shifting towards allowing Corgis to keep their natural tails.
Whether tailed or tailless, one thing remains true: Corgis are loyal, intelligent, and lovable companions that capture the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.
