Examples of Dog Ear Cropping Styles
There are few ear cropping styles you can still encounter in certain canines:
Long ear crop ( Tall crop )
Medium ear crop
Short ear crop
Legal Aspects of Ear Cropping to Consider
Ear cropping is now considered an elective and cosmetic procedure; it’s not necessary. Many countries and breed associations have banned the surgery. Even in Germany, where several of the most popularly cropped breeds and the practice likely originated, it has been banned. It remains legal in the US and the majority of Canada, despite legal battles in several states to outlaw the practice. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) also does not support the practice or that of tail docking when pursued strictly for cosmetic purposes due to the unnecessary risk to the animal implied with any surgery. However, at this time, both the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club support the practice and allow registration and showing of cropped dogs.
Ear cropping is a surgery and should only be performed by a qualified veterinarian. Sometimes the procedure is performed at home with no more than a pair of scissors while the animal is forcibly held down. This is painful, cruel, and can have catastrophic consequences, including infection, possible loss of the entire ear, or death. Therefore, serious thought should be given before pursuing an ear cropping. As with any surgery or anesthetic event, it carries significant risks. These risks should be discussed with your veterinarian extensively before pursuing the surgery with a qualified veterinarian.
15 Common Breeds With Docked Tails
The AKC recognizes 62 breeds with docked tails. Below are some of the most familiar breeds.
Dog Ear Cropping the pros and cons of Ear Cropping?
Ear cropping and tail docking are common today, but are these practices necessary or merely cosmetic? These procedures seem archaic to some, but it’s still considered the norm for certain dog breeds. We explore this topic and give you the information you need to make an informed decision for your pup. Table Of Contents
Cropping, also known as clipping dogs’ ears, removes all or part of the external ear flap on a dog. Many countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia, ban this practice (as well as tail docking) because it’s thought to be purely cosmetic; thus, it’s considered animal cruelty to perform unnecessary surgery on an animal.