It has to be done by a veterinarian as improper docking can cause MAJOR problems for the dog later (it is a part of their spine after all, lol). It is done between 2 and 10 days though call your vet because some won't do it past 5. After the time period it is no longer soft cartilage and becomes actual bone and nerves and removal is very complicated. It is considered an amputation then and not a dock. Most have dewclaws removed at the same time if they have any and they're not required for show.
