I also have to agree that w/ boxers docking to prevent injury is bologny. Labs & lots of other dogs are also very excitable breeds that end up having no injury to their tail later in life due to the nature of the dog.
Cropping of the ears should never be done (unless an injury requires it to be "ampputated"). But that rarely happens.
As far as tail docking... it depends, only if needed. One of the reasons Rotts had docked tails is that they used to be used for carting (pull cart to the meat market & so on) so the tails would not get in te way of the reins (simialr to horse & buggy harness & reigns). I believe that they were also docked as they used to be a hearding dog & that the tail would not get stepped on by bulls & what not or closed in gates when the cattle entered the stalls.

Basically what I am saying is if there is a purpose for docking the tail (you engage in the origional sport, event etc.. that the breed was used for) then by all means sure I agree with it. BUT there should be laws inforced that require it to be done by a licensed vet.

BUT as far as your friend goes, I would say no way. All litters should be totally planned out way before they come. Both parents should be tested free of all genetic diseases & other health problems & most of the pups should of been lined up w/ good homes before the litter was even conceived. This is a major topic to deal with especailly since all the pups are here already. I believe docking should be done between 3-5 days old (or something really close to that).

Please try to speak w/ your friends about spaying/neutering the parents. there are way too many great dogs looking for loving homes that don't even get a chance.