Tail docking in pigs is a painful procedure performed to prevent tail biting, but addressing the root causes in housing and management is more effective.
Tail docking is a painful amputation performed on piglets without anesthesia in most countries. The procedure does not address the root cause of tail biting, which is motivated by inadequate environments. The EU prohibits routine docking but allows it when other measures fail, creating a loophole widely exploited by industry. Addressing tail biting through enrichment and better housing is more humane and effective.