July 17, 2024, 9:28 am | Read time: 6 minutes
Docking — i.e., shortening — the ears and tail of dogs is prohibited in Germany. Exceptions to this are given to some hounds that are used specifically for hunting. This exception is about to be overturned as part of an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act. While animal rights activists welcome a possible ban, the German Hunting Association is clearly against it and explained why to PETBOOK.
Many people consider the practice of docking hunting dogs’ tails to be cruel and outdated. To them, it is reassuring that it could soon be banned as part of a revision of the German Animal Welfare Act. However, many hunters and the German Hunting Association are openly opposed to a ban on docking hunting dogs.
Hunters argue that a ban would be misguided and could significantly harm the welfare of these animals. PETBOOK spoke to biologist Torsten Reinwald about the purpose of docking, the use of hunting dogs in today’s world, and the prejudices that hunters regularly encounter with regard to dog training. He is a hunter himself and a press spokesman for the German Hunting Association.
‘Docking the tails of hunting dogs is done to protect their health’
PETBOOK: Why are the tails of hunting dogs docked at all?
Torsten Reinwald: “The docking of hunting dogs’ tails is done to protect their health. Hunting dogs have a job to do and have to pass a state test to be allowed to be used in hunting. The safety of these dogs is of the utmost importance, akin to people in certain professions using special protective gear. In some hunting dog breeds, the tail is shortened by up to half to prevent serious injuries caused by brambles, reeds, branches, or sharp stones. Injuries to the tail can lead to inflammation of the spinal cord, which can be fatal in an emergency. The procedure is performed within the first three days of life, is straightforward, and typically has no severe consequences for the animal.”
How painful is the procedure for the animals?
“It’s difficult to quantify precisely. But what I do know for sure is that the health protection achieved by docking justifies this procedure. Compared to the serious injuries that can occur during hunting, docking is a very minor procedure.”
Are there any health disadvantages to docking, such as trauma or communication problems with other dogs?
“I am not aware of any scientific studies that report any trauma caused by docking. Communication with other dogs remains unrestricted, as the tail is only docked by up to half its length.”
Studies show that undocked dogs suffer serious injuries during stalking hunts
What would a ban on docking hunting dogs achieve?
“A ban would be counterproductive for animal welfare, as the dogs could then be seriously injured while hunting. Studies from Scotland show that more than half of the hunting dogs used to hunt in difficult terrain suffer serious injuries if their tails are not docked. Hunters fulfill a state mandate and are supposed to help with forest conversion. Well-trained dogs for hunting deer or roe deer are essential for this.
Their roles extend beyond rummage hunts to include tasks like carcass detection during outbreaks of African swine fever. A ban would increase the risk of injury and could lead to dogs being seriously injured or dying while carrying out their tasks. Hunting dogs are not only working animals, but also family members. This is why we place a high priority on their well-being and safety.”
You mentioned that dogs can injure themselves in the heat of the moment while hunting. What kind of injuries are involved ?
“We are mainly talking about injuries during rummage hunts and searches. Hunting dogs move in difficult terrain and follow the scent of animals. They search for wild boar, deer, or stags in dense undergrowth. If they find any, they bark to make the wild animals leave the brambles or reeds and alert the hunters at the same time. Injuries can occur to the face, paws, or flanks. While modern Kevlar vests shield the dogs from thorns and wild boar attacks, the tail continues to be vulnerable to injury.”
Hunting dogs wear protective vests while hunting
Let’s stay with the protective vests for the dogs. What other technical innovations are used for hunting?
“In addition to the protective vests, which are designed to protect the dogs from injuries caused by reeds, brambles, or even the fangs of wild boar, GPS navigation systems are also used on the collar. With a smartphone app, I can monitor my dog’s location, whether it’s moving or stationary, and track its barking frequency, among other things.”
‘The misconception that training hunting dogs is violent still persists’
In the preliminary interview, you told me that you are annoyed by the misconception that many people think hunters use violence on their dogs during training.
“Yes, the misconception that the training of hunting dogs is violent is persistent. However, this is not the case. Training is mainly based on motivation and trust. A dog that is beaten does not trust its owner and will not work reliably as part of a team when hunting. All dogs need clear boundaries and consistency, but always in a motivating way. A simple example is training with food. My dog has to lie down in his place while I prepare his food. He is only allowed to eat when I give him the signal. Impulse control and consistent adherence to the rules is crucial for successful training and a harmonious life together. Setting boundaries and rules ultimately leads to greater freedom.”
Why do you think there is a prevailing misconception that dogs are treated badly by hunters and are always punished?
“When I read old books from the 19th century on hunting dog training, I shudder. They suggest stepping on a dog’s paws to teach it to heel. No, that is not necessary.”
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‘I am a big fan of using dog language as a guide’
That sounds terrible. Why is something like that in the textbooks?
“It was widespread back then, and not just in hunting. Regardless of whether it was a police dog or another dog, the way dogs were handled was different. I am a big fan of using dog language as a guide. I’m also a biologist, so maybe that’s why.”
Can you give an example of this?
“Yes, for example, with puppies. If he doesn’t want to heel, I can take a cue from his mother’s behavior. I make snapping movements with my index finger and thumb on his flank, just like the mother does when training her offspring. This is much better than stepping on his toes. Of course, I can also reward good behavior, but treats alone are not enough for good dog training. It requires consistency.”
Finally, a private question: you told me that your dog has become deaf, and you are now facing new challenges in hunting. What exactly are these challenges?
“He has significant hearing loss. I had to change my communication. Fortunately, I have consistently trained him with a variety of gestures and body language, making non-verbal communication relatively straightforward. He’s almost twelve years old, so he hasn’t rummaged for a few years now. He is connected to me via a 10-meter leash when we are searching. We have regular eye contact, and I can see what he is doing. He shows me through his behavior whether we are on the right track or whether he smells something more interesting. As a result, we face no significant limitations.”