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My 3-month-old puppy: Is it too late for tail docking? What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 9 days old

My puppy is 3 months old and I was wondering if he can still have his tail docked, and if so what are my options

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 27th, 2016

It is unfortunately not common practice to dock tails so late in age. Most general practitioners will not perform this procedure unless the pet is less than 2-3 days of age. At this age it is considered an amputation procedure because the bone vertebrae have completely formed, as well as the nerve endings, and is a lot more costly (average ~$500-$1000 depending on your area). You unfortunately will most likely have to discuss amputation with a veterinarian and call around to local clinics in your area to see who is willing to do the procedure. We don't have any websites dedicated to this service, so finding someone is going to be something you will have to ask around for to see who is willing to perform the procedure at this stage.

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