Routine tail docking of piglets without anesthetic is performed to prevent tail biting, itself caused by poor housing conditions, creating a cycle of welfare problems.
The tail docking problem illustrates a welfare paradox: a painful mutilation is performed to prevent a worse welfare outcome caused by inadequate housing. The correct solution is addressing root causes - providing more space, enrichment materials, and appropriate stocking densities that reduce the frustration-driven behavior of tail biting. European experience shows intact tail production is commercially viable with proper management.