Page 1 of 1

Length of tail - does it matter?

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 1:02 pm
by gobigorgohome
I bought two show pigs from a breeder. One has the normal length docked tail and the other one is twice as long. The longer one really bothers me! Does it matter in the show ring?

Re: Length of tail - does it matter?

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 2:34 pm
by Pac
I would say it shouldn't matter, but probably plays a role in placings when they are close. If you happen to have a very competitive pig I would think you're OK, but it may give the impression your project did not come from a "reputable" breeder...whatever that might mean.

Re: Length of tail - does it matter?

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 2:41 pm
by gobigorgohome
Pac wrote:
Mon Sep 23, 2019 2:34 pm
I would say it shouldn't matter, but probably plays a role in placings when they are close. If you happen to have a very competitive pig I would think you're OK, but it may give the impression your project did not come from a "reputable" breeder...whatever that might mean.
This is our 4th year buying from this same breeder, and all the others have been short. This pig is pretty nice, but the tail really bugs me. Is it too late to shorten it? Should I even worry about it?

Re: Length of tail - does it matter?

Posted: Mon Sep 23, 2019 3:46 pm
by Pac
you could...sooner than later would be best. Keep in mind that the ligament that curls the tail need to be cleanly cut or you can mess up the tail all together. Make sure that you use something very sharp and very sterile and then use blue koat or something similar.

Re: Length of tail - does it matter?

Posted: Thu Sep 26, 2019 3:56 pm
by Cody@OkState
If you're going to shorten it, I would have a vet do it. It can definitely be an undertaking, and if they are more than a few days-weeks old it can really set them back. Your best bet is just to leave it, hope for the best and dive him like you stole him! Good luck!