Reasons Why Tattoos on Dogs Are Banned Abroad
If you often follow dog competitions, you might notice that many show dogs are also adorned with tattoos. However, these tattoos are typically very small and placed in discreet locations where they are not easily visible. But why is that? Does this make show dogs special?
The Tattoos of Purebred Dogs
In fact, even today, many countries and regions still have the practice of tattooing purebred dogs. This is not just a matter of tradition; it serves a practical purpose. It ensures that puppies grow up without being replaced by imposters, thereby protecting the rights of the puppy buyers.
Why Not Microchips?
While microchipping is indeed a great option, it's not without its drawbacks. Each year, there are cases of dogs experiencing allergic reactions to microchipping. This makes tattooing a safer, more conservative alternative.
A Closer Look
Upon closer inspection, you'll notice that purebred dog tattoos usually consist of a series of numbers and codes. These tattoos are strategically placed in hardtosee areas, such as the groin, inside the ears, and under the armpits.
In essence, the reason purebred dogs are tattooed is a result of necessity, driven by the environment. Even today, the primary reasons for tattooing purebred dogs remain "to ensure the purity of the bloodline is not tampered with" and "to protect the rights of the buyers."
Moreover, there are specific time guidelines for purebred dog tattoos: typically 6 weeks for general breeds and 9 weeks for toy breeds.
Recommendations from International Organizations
Many international organizations recommend tattooing dogs, but they emphasize that tattoos should only consist of a small set of numbers and symbols, rather than any type of showy or displayoriented designs.