Well, you probably don't want to visit my house then, I have four dogs with docked tails - two fox terriers, a cocker spaniel and an Australian cattle dog.

I got the dogs when they were adults, I didn't have their tails docked, they were already done when I got them. I also have another Australian cattle dog with a natural tail. I really don't have a preference one way or another on the ACD's, they both look fine to me. But, quite frankly, I think my fox terriers and cocker would look ridiculous with natural tails. They would look like mixed breeds, IMO.

I can't imagine getting a puppy from a breeder, ever. I rescue dogs, and there are just too many adults needing homes. It's probably not something I would ever do. However, hypothetically, if I were to get a smooth fox terrier puppy or a cocker puppy from a breeder ... I would want its tail docked. It's my personal opinion that they just don't look "right" with natural tails. Maybe if the trend continues, and we start to see more and more natural tails in the USA, then perhaps I would get used to the look on my breeds, and be ok with it. But for now .... no.

I realize that docking and cropping are controversial topics. I'll offer my personal opinion on the matter - and it is just that, my personal opinion. I think whether or not you like or don't like the docked/cropped look, or would ever do it, is up to the individual, and shouldn't be dictated by others.

I personally would dock a puppies tail if it were a purebred of a breed that normally has its tail docked. I have witnessed several litters being docked, and when it is done properly, it is really not a big deal at all. I would not have a mixed breed's tail docked. I personally would not get a dog's ears cropped. I feel cropping is a much more complicated and painful procedure, and I don't really like the cropped look much.

Just MHO.