Hello everyone,
I am considering getting a black-and-tan Doberman Pinscher (Dobe) as a new addition to my family. However, I am confused about whether all Dobes with this coloring are born with short tails or not.
I've done some research online, and while some sources say that all Dobes have their tails docked at a young age, others suggest that some breeders now refrain from this practice and allow their puppies to keep their tails. Additionally, I've seen pictures of black-and-tan Dobes with both short and long tails, making me all the more unsure.
So, I wanted to turn to the experts here and ask if you know for sure whether all black-and-tan Dobes are born with short tails, or if it varies depending on the breeder or other factors. Any insights or personal experiences you can share will be much appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Hi everyone,
I've had a black-and-tan Doberman for a few years now and can attest that my pup was born with a short tail. From what I've been told, tail docking is a common practice in the Doberman breed because it can prevent injury to the tail whilst the dog is working. As Dobermans are very high-energy dogs, it's possible that they could injure their tails during work, and docking helps to reduce that possibility.
While I understand the reasons behind docking tails, I personally would have preferred if my Doberman had kept their tail. Tail docking involves removing a portion of the tail, and it can be painful for the puppy, which doesn't sit well with me. Additionally, having a natural tail can help the dog communicate with other dogs, as wagging tails have been shown to play a helpful role in canine social interactions.
That being said, it's ultimately up to the owner to decide what look they prefer for their dog. It's not necessarily a bad thing to choose a Doberman with a docked tail, as it won't affect the dog's overall health or well-being. However, if you have strong feelings about the issue, it may be worthwhile to research and consider breeders who don't dock tails.
In conclusion, while most black-and-tan Doberman Pinschers are born with short tails, there are some breeders who choose to leave the tails intact, so it's worth asking a breeder about their policies before making a decision. At the end of the day, it's all about personal preference and what feels right for you and your furry friend.