To the left is Snoopy at 5 months of age. He is my roommate's dog. Normally, poodle tails are cut when they're 3 days old, but Snoopy's wasn't. I think it's cute! Snoopy is now three years old. His tail hair is long and flowing, and hangs over his back. Brushing once a week keeps it neat.

This is Athena, from Be and FuzzE. She is 18 days old in this picture, and as you can see, I did not cut her tail. I've had several clients request a natural tail for their puppies. If it's something you're considering, please feel free to email me with any questions you might have. More pictures of Athena are here.

The cutting of a poodle's tail is a horrid AKC requirement for showing in breed ring. It is considered customary in this country to dock a poodle's tail, but it's certainly not mandatory. My puppies are intended as pets, so if you'd prefer to keep the tail long, I'm happy to oblige!