What Does a Labradoodle Tail Look Like

Labradoodle Tail – Complete Guide to Facts and Issues

Labradoodles are a designer breed of dogs; they result from crossing between a Labrador retriever and a poodle. This dog breed is intelligent, friendly, pleasing to look at, and will make a great dog cuddle with. However, what remains unknown to many people is that Labradoodle needs much care. Hence, if you’re thinking of getting yourself one, be prepared to spend some extra time on grooming.

As much as the shaggy fur of the Labradoodle requires extra care, its tail is no exception. The tail is crucial in determining whether the Labradoodle is getting enough grooming. 

The Labradoodle tail often has the issue of being prone to injuries and matted hair. Some might prefer to dock it for a solution, but it is not so. In fact, you can prevent injuries with consistent care and grooming. 

That being the case, prospective owners should be ready for some intense dog care.

What Does a Labradoodle Tail Look Like?

What Are Some Issues With the Labradoodle Tail
What Are Some Facts About the Labradoodle Tail

A Labrador retriever has a thick tail of medium length and has a relatively short fur. Their tail is not curled but straight. In contrast, a poodle’s tail is straight and vertical, and it has a pompom-like coat at the tip. So, what could a Labradoodle’s tail look like?

You can expect Labradoodles to have a varying mixture of each parent trait. You can get more of one feature, and if you’re lucky enough, be blessed with a Labradoodle that has an equal mix of both characteristics.

In most cases, the Labradoodle’s tail has a straight bone, but the curly fur makes it look curved or even curly. Some Labradoodles who inherit a dominant part of the Labrador genes have a smooth and straight tail. Also, the length of the tail can vary depending on the parent’s genes.

What Are Some Issues With the Labradoodle Tail?

Labradoodle owners are aware of most of these, but new owners need to be careful while deciding to keep one.

Firstly, since their tails are primarily thick and curly, they are prone to skin irritations like fleas or allergies. They might also spot balding in areas of the tail. So, what is the solution? A regular grooming routine with particular attention to the rear is a must. Use flea prevention shampoos and apply topical treatments over itchy skin to prevent further damage.

A silly yet escalating problem of most Labradoodle owners is having poop stuck on the fur of their tail. It becomes even more troublesome when your dog has dried poop on their bottom. In order to prevent such a mess, it is recommended that you trim (really short) around the base of their tail. As for dried poop, you will have to cut out portions of the fur carefully.

Another pervasive issue that causes many owners to resort to docking is the fracturing of the tail bone. Sometimes when your dog is just too happy, they wag their tails too hard and can end up hitting on hard surfaces, resulting in injuries and, sometimes, fractures.

What Are Some Facts About the Labradoodle Tail?

Despite their popularity as a celebrated canine breed, many people get the facts wrong. 

First off, Labradoodles are a designer breed, not simply a hybrid. A hybrid can be a cross between any two species, while a designer breed is a cross between two pure breeds. And hence, you cannot expect the tail to follow a strict appearance because both parents are uniquely different.

Most owners already know this, but a Labradoodle tail will require the caring techniques of both a Labrador and a poodle. It would be helpful if you were prepared to care for the worst of both worlds.

Also, their tails are straight and not curved or curled. The outer appearance may be fluffy and fuzzy, with long or short fur, but the bone structure is refined.

Finally, a Labradoodle’s tail is functional, and it helps them in activities like swimming and can be a great communication tool as it is highly expressive. As such, a complete tail is better than a docked tail.

Should You Dock a Labradoodles’ Tail?

Even though a full tail can sometimes hinder movement and be a cause of injuries, it is not without pain. The entire process of attempting to bring fewer injuries comes with a lot of pain on the dog’s part. This is why most people disregard the practice, and tail docking has even become prohibited in most places.

Apart from the practical issues, why would anyone want to remove something that gives so much beauty to a dog? The fluffy tail of dogs is one essential aspect of their appearance and is crucial to their doghood.

Also, Labradoodles, being water lovers, use their tails to help them swim. Imagine what would follow if you were to dock them!

Trimming a Labradoodle Tail for the Perfect Groom

To get a perfect, firm, and healthy-looking tail, trim the messy fur on your Labradoodle’s bottom. Trimming will also remove dirt and prevent the development of matted hair.

First, hold the tail straight and comb it down to align all the fur and make it ready for a fresh cut. Now, take a scissor and trim off the edges, little by little, until you reach a length that looks put together.

Once you’ve done this, your Labradoodle will be free of messy outdoor encounters and look like a giant toy!

Conclusion

What Does a Labradoodle Tail Look Like
Should You Dock a Labradoodles' Tail?

A Labradoodle is a fun breed to have around. Its body features take after the two purebred canines, and its tail is one part that demands a little extra supervision and effort to keep its overall health in check.

Unless your Labradoodle has a valid reason to do so, you should avoid docking its tail. Apart from the countless criticism, you will receive on doing it, docking a dog’s tail is just a way of taking away its doghood.

The only way to steer clear of all issues and give your Labradoodle the life it deserves is to take grooming seriously. The proper method applied with consistency will be the best and only solution to all the problems. Also, make frequent visits to the vet for a thorough check-up.

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