Schnauzer Ear Cropping Styles? Best 51 Answer

Giant Schnauzers have floppy and hairy ears. You’re born with it because it’s a natural way of protecting the ear from bugs, water, and dirt that could lead to infection. But many dogs have cropped ears lately, which is now becoming a growing trend in certain breeds like the Giant Schnauzer. Should you crop your pet’s ears or not? Before you make a decision, let’s learn more about ear cropping and find out for yourself if ear cropping is right for your four-legged friend.

What is ear clipping?

Removing part of your dog’s ears is called ear trimming. Ideally, only a licensed veterinarian can perform this procedure because before you cut your dog’s ears, they should be done under anesthesia and in sterile and surgical environments to avoid complications such as infection.

Make sure your dog is between 7 and 12 weeks old as this age is ideal for ear clipping. Do not allow your dogs to eat for 12 hours prior to performing the procedure as a sedated dog is most likely to experience aspiration.

The vet will first measure and mark your pet’s ears as a guide before making an incision during the surgery. After the ears have been cut, the cut point is disinfected and then sewn up. The vet will then tape the ears in an “alert” position. The aftercare of the wound is more detailed, meticulous and time consuming to achieve the desired appearance for your Giant Schnauzer.

Are there any benefits to cropping your Giant Schnauzer’s ears?

Although ear clipping is common in breeds like giant schnauzers, some say that whether or not you clip your dog’s ear doesn’t change your dog’s risk of getting an infection. So cropped ears do not guarantee that your Giant Schnauzer will be protected from ear infections.

Keep in mind that dogs prone to ear infections may be due to their genes and not because they have floppy ears. Ear cropping is a cosmetic procedure to achieve a polished appearance that alters your pet’s natural appearance and does not improve their health.

Additionally, cropped ears can cause your furry friend to experience physical pain, discomfort, and even psychological trauma that can last for long periods of time.

Should you crop your dog’s ears or not?

A pet owner like you can only answer that question. If you’re unsure whether or not to clip your furry friend’s ear, make sure you do more research and speak to your veterinarian for additional information and advice. After cropping the ears, have enough time to take care of your four-legged friend’s needs, such as: B. Bandaging, disposal and frequent visits to the vet? Do you have enough space in your home where your pet can heal in time after such an operation? Also consider your purpose for ear clipping. Are you a breeder? Want a show dog? Do you want your dog to achieve a classic breed appearance? These are just some of the factors to consider when deciding to crop your pet’s ears. That means it will help you make a decision about what’s best for your dog so you won’t regret it in the future.

Credit: the Spruce Pets

Surgery to cut off ears

Ear cutting is a surgical procedure that requires general anesthesia. This is purely a cosmetic procedure and is in no way necessary for your dog’s overall well-being. Since it is a cosmetic operation, there is no guarantee of the procedure. This includes the shape and whether the ears stand up. We can guarantee that the operation will be performed to the best of our ability and all surgical standards will be followed.

The best age for ear clipping is between 8 and 12 weeks. You should contact our office a few weeks before this age window to arrange your consultation appointment as we typically book around four weeks for consultations and surgeries. A consultation appointment is required before the operation. Many breeds cannot be done at 12 weeks because the ears are not likely to stand up and recovery is much more difficult. The type of crop depends on your pet’s future size, weight, head shape, and general body shape. If you do not specify a style for the ears, they will be trimmed in the usual manner for the breed, with the length and width the doctor decides is best when the dog is fully grown.

After the operation, most of the follow-up care is your responsibility. To be successful you must follow the guidelines fully or you increase the risk of the ears not standing or scarring. It’s a minimum of a 4-6 week commitment that often involves lifestyle changes on your part. The time commitment for longer trimmed breeds like Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes is sometimes up to a year of consistent grooming. Puppy needs to be seen/posted every 2-7 days until ears are up; Doberman Pinschers take an average of 6-10 weeks for ears to stand up, with some individuals living to 6 months or more. Please keep this in mind if you are considering having your puppy’s ears cropped and plan accordingly (holidays, holidays, work hours, etc.). Larger breeds and longer crop styles take longer than smaller breeds or shorter ears. When you return to the clinic for re-wrapping and suture removal, you will not see the doctor. You must make an appointment before coming with the technician, preferably at the time we recommend. We know that planning can be difficult at times, but we need to have the right staff on hand to wrap your pup’s ears. Ear cutting surgery is scheduled on Monday or Friday. We do not use a laser to perform the ear cutting.

Important things to note:

A. Your puppy MUST be on a documented vaccination program and he/she must also be free of parasites (fleas and worms).

B. The first 7-10 days are the most difficult for you and your pup. The ears start to itch as they begin to heal. You must be very vigilant during this time to avoid injuring the puppy’s ears.

C. Most importantly, the ears need to be cared for and you need to return to the follow-up appointments that we recommend. In the years of ear clipping, the failures (not standing or taking much longer than normal to stand) are usually cases where the owner doesn’t follow our recommendations. You’re spending a lot of money, and the pup needs to “wear” the ears for the rest of its life, so let’s work together and get it right.

We strongly recommend that you familiarize yourself with the methods of ear posting. While we’ll post ears for you, it helps if you have the knowledge necessary to intervene if your pup’s ears require attention in the evenings and weekends.

Please bring a photo of your desired plant with you to your consultation appointment. The photo should be a frontal, front-facing, clear photo of the ear style you want for your pet.

Call our office for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Elected Surgery for Dogs: It may sound strange, but this is exactly what some purebred animals go through shortly after birth. Two surgical procedures — ear clipping and tail docking — have long been routine in certain breeds, such as Dobermans, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Schnauzers. But a growing number of experts and animal welfare organizations are arguing that just because it’s the norm, something is wrong.

what it entails

Docking — the removal of part or all of a dog’s tail, usually with surgical scissors — occurs when a dog is only a few days old and its tail is still “soft.” This operation is also known as “bobbing”.

“Docking is usually performed by a veterinarian or breeder without anesthesia because, while it certainly causes pain, the pup is not fully awake and will not remember it,” says Emily Patterson-Kane, PhD, an animal welfare scientist at American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Patterson-Kane does not support the method itself.

Clipping — cutting off the flaccid part of a dog’s ear — is usually performed on anesthetized dogs between the ages of 6 and 12 weeks. The ears are then taped to a hard surface for several weeks while they heal to keep them upright.

One of the most controversial issues in the canine world today is the docking of dogs’ ears and docking of their tails.

crop ear

Cropped and docked Doberman Pinschers | istockphoto/JamesBrey Cropped and docked Doberman Pinscher | istockphoto/JamesBrey

dock tail

Docked Boxer | istockphoto/Alona Rjabceva Docked Boxer | istockphoto/Alona Rjabceva

Cropping and docking in today’s society

Pam Hair Pam Hair is a pet industry copywriter at Fuzzy Friends Writer where she combines her three passions: a love of animals, a strong desire to help other people and a love of writing. She has been a pet parent to dogs, cats and a variety of rodents over the years. She and her husband currently share their home with two guinea pigs.

For some breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Schnauzers, and others, one or both is an accepted breed standard. But have you ever wondered why these practices started in the first place? Many dog ​​breeds have been used for a variety of jobs over the years that put them at risk. Some dogs are used as guard dogs against human predators. Others are used to protect sheep and other livestock from predators. Still others are used to help humans hunt wild animals. Some of these wild animals are very dangerous, like wild boar. For dogs used for these purposes, an ear flap was a liability. A predator, human or animal could grab a dog’s ear flap, restricting the dog’s movement, or seriously injuring the dog. To protect the dog from this danger, the dangling part of the ear would be trimmed back and the ears would be bandaged in the upright position. As the ears healed, they continued to stand erect, making them more difficult to grasp. The practice of tail docking (amputating most of the tail) dates back to the ancient Romans, who believed that cutting off a dog’s tail and tongue prevented rabies. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Puritans in early America cut off dogs’ tails because they believed the tails were possessed by demons. Around the same time in England hunting and play dogs were taxed, but the working dogs on farms were not taxed. To distinguish between the two, the working dogs had their tails docked. An interesting side effect was that owning a long-tailed dog was considered a sign of wealth. Over the years, other reasons for tail docking have surfaced. Some who used dogs to help herd livestock feared the large animals would step on a dog’s tail and cause serious injury. Many hunters feared their dogs’ tails would be grabbed by their prey. Other hunters worried that their dogs’ tails might get tangled in brush or scrub, which could be painful or harmful to the dogs. Over time, it became common to see certain dogs with docked tails and cropped ears. It was accepted, then expected for the dogs to have a specific appearance, and eventually became the breed standard. Things are much different today and most breed organizations are moving away from these antiquated practices.

End of ear clipping: Dogs need their ears — and here’s why

It sounds obvious right? Dogs are born with ears – so they must have a purpose and matter. They are. Dogs not only use their ears to hear, but also to communicate with other dogs and also with us.

What is ear clipping?

Unfortunately, there are some people out there who believe that certain breeds and types of dogs should have their ears surgically altered or even removed entirely. This horrible process is called ear clipping.

Is ear cutting illegal?

Ear clipping is illegal in England and Wales under Section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. It is a painful process in which a dog’s outer ears are completely removed or surgically altered, cutting off the tips or large portions of the outer ears.

It is against the law to perform this procedure yourself or to send your dog to a local or international veterinarian for ear cropping. Unfortunately it still happens.

In some medical situations, veterinarians can perform a procedure called a pinnectomy, which can appear like the ears have been cut off. This is only done in case of ear disease and is more often needed in white cats, which can sometimes get skin cancer. The procedure is allowed if there are clear medical reasons – quite different from when ears are surgically altered for cosmetic reasons.

Tail docking is another procedure that is illegal unless performed by a vet for medical reasons – and keeping a “working dog” is no exception to the rule. No dog should have its ears cropped. Period.

Why shouldn’t dogs crop their ears?

Why all the fuss? Dogs need their ears. Here’s why:

Hearing – Dogs’ ears can move independently and move in the direction of sound, allowing them to be positioned in the optimal spot for hearing. The outer ear is shaped to capture sound waves and direct them into the ear canal and eardrum. It is not yet known whether surgical alterations (e.g. ear cutting) affect hearing, but it is possible.

Communication – Dogs use their ears to help us and other animals understand how they are feeling. Without their ears, dogs have fewer opportunities to communicate with us.

Body Language – Where a dog’s ears are placed, also known as their ear position, can help us understand if a dog is concerned or happy and relaxed. When a dog’s ears have been removed, it can be more difficult to know how they are doing.

In five years, we’ve seen 236% more reports of ear cropping

Unfortunately, the RSPCA sees more and more dogs with cropped ears coming into our care. In fact, we’ve seen a 236 percent increase in reports of ear cropping over the past five years (178 total reports between 2015 and 2019).

Dogs like Jess (pictured) are victims of those very reports. Two-year-old Cane Corso was rescued by our rescue team earlier this year along with a litter of six puppies.

She had her tail docked and her ears almost completely removed. She was — unsurprisingly — incredibly suspicious of people, and it took employees months to build their confidence and ability to trust.

We are concerned that an increasing number of dogs are being driven, being sent abroad to have their ears cropped, or being bought and imported from countries where docking is still legal.

Celebrities and fashion are normalizing ear cropping

The practice of ear cropping is legal in America and other European countries. While in the UK, the cropped look is being normalized – and even glamorized – due to a rise in celebrities owning cropped dogs. In fact, images of docked dogs are even used on clothing and other merchandise, as well as in advertising.

RSPCA expert on dog protection, Dr. Samantha Gaines says:

Ear clipping is painful and completely unnecessary. Despite what some breeders will claim, cutting off a dog’s ears does not give them any benefit whatsoever. It can have short- and long-term adverse effects on their health, behavior and well-being. Dogs cut off their ears for one reason and one reason only; to achieve a certain “look”. In short, it makes them look tougher and more intimidating. In the past, breeds like Doberman pinschers would have their ears clipped off as puppies and then splinted — glued to pieces of wood or cardboard — to make their ears grow up instead of letting them go floppy. Now we tend to see breeds like American bullies having their entire ears removed. Dogs go through this painful process just to make them look a certain way. It is entirely up to the owner and can affect the dog for the rest of his life.

Join us in opposing ear cropping

We want to see stricter regulations in England and Wales to ensure we eradicate ear-docking and the importation of docked dogs from abroad once and for all (unless through a reputable sanctuary rescue organisation).

That’s why we support the petition of dog trainer Jordan Shelley, who calls for a ban on the import of dogs with cropped ears. More than 16,000 people have joined the online petition.

Will you add yours next?

One service we offer here at Brentwood Animal Hospital is ear clipping. As you may know, ear cropping is a surgical procedure in which the ear is trimmed back so that it stands up instead of falling over. As you may know, cropping ears gets a bad rap. However, much of this is due to misinformation. A Washington DC veterinarian discusses ear cropping below.

basics

There are actually 20 AKC-recognized breeds with cropped ears. The procedure is usually done with Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Boston Terriers, or Great Danes. Generally, ear trimming is done when dogs are between 9 and 12 weeks old. After that, the chances of success decrease, since Fido’s ears may already be hanging.

Traditional reasons

Nowadays, ear cutting is done for cosmetic reasons. However, the procedure was previously performed for practical reasons. For example, boxers were often used as guard dogs. Cutting off their ears actually improved their hearing and therefore their work performance. The Brussels Griffon, a hunting dog, had its ears cropped to prevent them from being bitten by rats or other prey. Ear docking also helped prevent ear injuries in hunting dogs, which would likely become tangled on thorns or thorns.

The myths

You may have heard that this is very painful for dogs. In fact, this is not the case. The operation is performed under anesthesia. After that, Fido gets painkillers. After that it’s all downhill!

post-treatment

Ear cropping requires a lot of aftercare. You must follow your veterinarian’s guidelines to the letter. Your pup’s ears will start to itch as they heal, so you need to discourage him from scratching or rubbing them. Things get a lot easier once the stitching is removed, but you still need to keep track. Small dogs usually heal faster than large pooches, but healing time really varies and can take up to two months. During this time, you will need to bring Fido in for regular follow-up visits. Keep this in mind when planning the surgery.

Prepare

Before booking the procedure, do some thorough research and consult with your veterinarian. It is always important to make an informed decision! Fido also needs to be up to date with his vaccines and be parasite free.

Hepper does not endorse ear cutting as it is not a necessary medical procedure.

Did you know that a Doberman Pinscher doesn’t naturally have pointy ears? Although you will see most Doberman Pinschers with erect ears, they naturally have folded and floppy ears. Cropping the ears achieves this look.

Ear clipping is the surgical method of removing the tips of your dog’s ears. This usually happens in breeds with floppy ears. It is an elective surgery that dog owners can choose for their dogs while they are young. Most dogs with cropped ears are treated immediately after birth.

Ear clipping is popular with many dog ​​breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Great Dane, and Boston Terrier, among others.

The history of ear cutting goes back over 300 years. It was believed that cutting off a dog’s ears would protect him from being attacked by wolves or other animals in a hunting or working environment. It was also believed to be particularly important that working dogs be shorn to prevent ear infections and bruising.

Recently, however, dog owners are considering ear clipping mainly for cosmetic reasons.

Since ear cropping is simply aesthetic, the question has been raised as to whether it is legal or moral for dogs to undergo such body modification.

Is it legal to cut off ears on dogs?

The debate over whether or not ear cropping is legal continues. Recently, many more dog owners and anti-cruelty groups have raised awareness of the problem. Through their efforts, several countries have banned the practice outright.

Countries such as Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, England, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway and Turkey have already made ear cropping illegal. However, it is still considered legal in countries like Canada and India. In the United States, the legality of ear cropping is up to each state, with some banning the practice outright.

That being said, many bills are still under consideration in the US to make it illegal for cosmetic use only while maintaining legality for medical cases. If these bills pass, a dog owner will need a diagnosis and approval from their veterinarian before having their dog have an ear copper procedure.

Is Ear Cropping in Dogs Ethical?

Cosmetic surgery on dogs has reached alarming proportions over the past 100 years. In the United States alone, around 130,000 puppies undergo unnecessary plastic surgery each year.

Some experts believe that cropping dogs’ ears for cosmetic purposes is not supported by medical science and does not benefit the dog at all. However, proponents of the procedure believe it’s not entirely cruel since the puppies undergo the procedure under anesthesia. Plus, the puppies receive top-notch aftercare after the surgery.

Proponents of ear cropping compare the practice to spaying or neutering, which are considered common animal husbandry practices. Likewise, they believe that ear cropping should remain available to dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians.

But anti-ear cropping groups liken the practice to gruesome procedures like the amputation of a healthy human toe or arm — painful, unnecessary, and which over time can lead to serious health problems.

So is it ethical? Like most ethical issues, this practice falls into a gray area. It all depends on your particular views. However, there are rare medical cases where ear cutting is deemed necessary. For example, if a dog is born with ears that are larger than normal, or the tips are too high, ear trimming may be necessary to prevent future injury.

How much does it cost to clip a dog’s ears?

If you decide ear cropping is for your dog, the procedure can be quite expensive. The price is usually between $150 and $600. But don’t choose your surgeon based on price alone. It’s best to go to a reputable clinic to have your dog’s ears cropped.

As with other procedures, you should choose a place where they offer the best service. Make sure your clinic maintains good hygiene, has an accommodating staff, and the best surgical equipment and execution.

A fair price for ear cropping in the US is around $300. But that will also vary from state to state. Another factor that can cause the cost to change is the breed of your dog. Some clinics offer different packages based on breed—particularly for dogs that typically have the procedure.

Aside from the procedure itself, there are post-surgery medications, childbirth, and other cost considerations. Some clinics will include this in the package; However, this is not always the case. If recovery is not included in the quoted price, expect an additional cost of around $50-$100.

Surgery and recovery of ear cutting

Your dog’s recovery and aftercare after ear trimming varies from procedure to procedure. For many dogs, the healing process will be relatively quick and easy. The best they will experience is a bit of itching around the stitches as they heal.

However, other puppies may require additional care. Younger puppies need to be monitored closely, especially those who are still nursing from their mother or who have littermates.

Usually, your puppy will need to take some medication to help the recovery process and their bites will need frequent cleaning.

Most dog owners take care of their dogs themselves as it is relatively easy to do. Your veterinarian will let you know if your dog will need more intensive follow-up care after having their ears trimmed.

Should you trim your dog’s ears?

While it’s a controversial practice, ear clipping might be the right procedure for your pup. There are some instances when your dog absolutely needs surgery. If this is the case, it is often recommended to do it at an early age.

You can also have your dog’s ears trimmed for cosmetic purposes – provided you’re in an area where it’s legal. However, if you are ever unsure, you can always consult your veterinarian to find out if ear cropping is the best option for your dog.

Selected image source: Ivanova N, Shutterstock

Ear cropping and tail docking are two controversial forms of canine surgery. Although ear cropping is mentioned in many show dog breed standards, the American Veterinary Medical Association recently changed its official stance on cropping, stating that it now opposes cropping that is performed solely for cosmetic purposes. Due to its controversial nature, responsible dog owners will only seek safe and professionally performed surgery from qualified veterinarians who do not oppose docking on ethical grounds.

Ethical and unethical ear clipping

Many people question the ethics behind clipping a dog’s ears. Because the ethics of ear cropping are often questioned, the responsible dog owner will always engage the services of a licensed veterinarian to perform the surgery. Operations performed by the dog owner, such as those performed with scissors or an Exacto knife, are generally considered unethical and may even be illegal.

Various cropping styles

Different breeds have different styles of trimming based on the purpose of the trimming, the firmness of the ear leather, the shape of the dog’s skull, and the dog’s expression. The dog owner must determine the best style prior to ear clipping and be able to express this desire to the operating veterinarian.

The ethical surgical procedure

Vet assistant Laura Thompson explains that circumcision today is performed in a sterile operating room with the dog sedated. After the dog is immobilized, the vet marks the ear leather as a guide before making the incisions. After the ear leather is removed, the ears may or may not be sewn shut depending on the vet’s practice. The ears are then taped and bandaged in an upright position (posted) and taped to the orthosis.

Other methods of cropping the ears

Some dog breeders still prefer to crop their own dogs’ ears, either out of habit or because they are unable to hire a veterinarian to perform the procedure. Because they generally don’t have access to anesthesia, they numb the ears with topicals or ice. After the ears are marked, as the vet would do, the person performing the surgery uses either sterilized scissors or a sterilized craft knife to trim the ear leather.

Sharp kitchen or craft scissors are the typical tool of choice for trimming small dog ears at home. Because of the lag marks that can be left when using scissors, individuals trimming ears in medium, large, or giant breeds may choose to use a knife to form a smoother edge. After the procedure, clean the wound and dust it with an antiseptic powder to help healing.

Regardless of the tools used, this procedure puts the pup at risk of injury or death. Ear cropping can be a traumatic operation and is best performed by an experienced professional.

Conclusion

Last summer, a client with two American Bulldog puppies came in for a routine health check. Both puppies were about four months old and from the same litter. Both also had ears that had been cropped into small stubs.

Although the wounds had healed, I asked the owner what happened. The only information they could give was: It was “made abroad” before they bought the puppies. As they were old enough to have been legally imported, that explanation was plausible, but I still felt very uncomfortable and explained to the owner why cropped ears were illegal in the UK.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. In recent years veterinarians in the UK have noticed a dramatic increase in the number of dogs with cropped ears, marking a frightening trend towards the normalization of a mutilation that is horrendous, unnecessary and rightly illegal in this country.

A cosmetic procedure of no benefit to dogs

Ear cropping is a surgical procedure that cuts off the floppy part of a dog’s ear, often without anesthesia or pain relief. In many cases, the ear stump is then attached to a hard surface in a process known as splinting to “shape” it upright while it heals.

Ear cropping is done for purely cosmetic reasons, to make dogs look “tougher” or “tougher.” I want to make it clear that there is no benefit to the dogs involved. In fact, it significantly affects their well-being. The procedure itself is painful as it cuts through the cartilage and can take weeks to heal, with pain at every dressing change. There is also a risk of the puppy becoming infected during the process.

Some people claim that ear cropping has health benefits, but that’s just not true. Ear clipping does not improve a dog’s hearing or prevent ear infections. Many of the breeds with cropped ears, such as Doberman Pinschers and American Bulldogs, are not ones that we would consider at increased risk of infection.

Changing the conformation of a dog’s ears affects its ability to communicate. We’ve all seen dogs communicate with their facial expressions, including ear movements; This natural behavior is inhibited by cropping.

In short, there are rarely medical reasons why a dog would need both ears cut off. For the most part, the procedure is performed simply to alter a dog’s natural appearance for human satisfaction.

What’s next?

The RSPCA has reported a massive 236% increase in the number of reports of ear cropping over the past five years.

This surge in numbers could be fueled by the rise of celebrities and social media influencers featuring their dogs with cropped ears on platforms like Instagram, leading to the glamorization and normalization of this barbaric practice.

But it’s illegal in the UK, so how does that happen?

One explanation is that dogs with cropped ears are imported from countries outside the UK where the procedure is still legal. Another reason is that dogs bred in the UK are purposely taken abroad for the procedure.

We know that some docked rescue dogs will find new homes in the UK or families who own docked dogs will move here. But these are small numbers, and we fear these excuses will be used as veils by unscrupulous sellers. Many of the cases we see in practice are very young puppies – so they are either being illegally moved (legal import age is 15 weeks) or buyers and vets are being lied to.

It has recently come to light that unscrupulous breeders are illegally performing this heinous practice in the UK, using crude instruments or internet-bought kits to do-it-yourself ear cropping, likely without anesthetic or pain relief. And for what? A tough looking dog with little regard for the pain and suffering he causes them.

time to act

Ear cropping is illegal and it’s time to act to stop it in the UK. The government must work with veterinarians and animal welfare organizations to find an effective way to stop this heinous practice.

A ban on the import of dogs with cropped ears is being demanded. This is a clear call to action, but we need to ensure the structures are in place to enforce it and we need to think about the implications for legitimate movements, such as B. moving families. If we put our heads together I’m sure we can find the right animal welfare solutions.

We must educate ourselves and each other. We need to stop normalizing this mutilation. Celebrities who post pictures with their docked dogs must be called upon to continue the trade and instructed #CutTheCrop

Members of the public can report incidents of people having ears docked or dogs docked abroad by calling the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 (in England and Wales), the Scottish SPCA on 0300 0999 999 (in Scotland) and your Animal Welfare Officer Local Council (in Northern Ireland).

How can vets help?

It is important to remember that as veterinarians we are sworn to protect the health and welfare of the animals in our care. Under the RCVS Code of Conduct, veterinarians and veterinary paramedics may breach patient confidentiality and disclose information to authorities when deemed necessary, including when “the welfare of the animals or the public interest is at risk…or when the information is likely to aid in prevention, detection or prosecution of a crime.”

If you are a veterinarian and are concerned about cases of ear cropping or illegal importation that you have seen in the field, you can report these concerns to your local authority’s animal health and welfare team.

We all need to speak up, raise our voices and take action for #CutTheCrop.

Thanks to RSPCA for providing images.

Hepper does not endorse ear cutting as it is not a necessary medical procedure.

Did you know that a Doberman Pinscher doesn’t naturally have pointy ears? Although you will see most Doberman Pinschers with erect ears, they naturally have folded and floppy ears. Cropping the ears achieves this look.

Ear clipping is the surgical method of removing the tips of your dog’s ears. This usually happens in breeds with floppy ears. It is an elective surgery that dog owners can choose for their dogs while they are young. Most dogs with cropped ears are treated immediately after birth.

Ear clipping is popular with many dog ​​breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Great Dane, and Boston Terrier, among others.

The history of ear cutting goes back over 300 years. It was believed that cutting off a dog’s ears would protect him from being attacked by wolves or other animals in a hunting or working environment. It was also believed to be particularly important that working dogs be shorn to prevent ear infections and bruising.

Recently, however, dog owners are considering ear clipping mainly for cosmetic reasons.

Since ear cropping is simply aesthetic, the question has been raised as to whether it is legal or moral for dogs to undergo such body modification.

Is it legal to cut off ears on dogs?

The debate over whether or not ear cropping is legal continues. Recently, many more dog owners and anti-cruelty groups have raised awareness of the problem. Through their efforts, several countries have banned the practice outright.

Countries such as Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, England, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway and Turkey have already made ear cropping illegal. However, it is still considered legal in countries like Canada and India. In the United States, the legality of ear cropping is up to each state, with some banning the practice outright.

That being said, many bills are still under consideration in the US to make it illegal for cosmetic use only while maintaining legality for medical cases. If these bills pass, a dog owner will need a diagnosis and approval from their veterinarian before having their dog have an ear copper procedure.

Is Ear Cropping in Dogs Ethical?

Cosmetic surgery on dogs has reached alarming proportions over the past 100 years. In the United States alone, around 130,000 puppies undergo unnecessary plastic surgery each year.

Some experts believe that cropping dogs’ ears for cosmetic purposes is not supported by medical science and does not benefit the dog at all. However, proponents of the procedure believe it’s not entirely cruel since the puppies undergo the procedure under anesthesia. Plus, the puppies receive top-notch aftercare after the surgery.

Proponents of ear cropping compare the practice to spaying or neutering, which are considered common animal husbandry practices. Likewise, they believe that ear cropping should remain available to dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians.

But anti-ear cropping groups liken the practice to gruesome procedures like the amputation of a healthy human toe or arm — painful, unnecessary, and which over time can lead to serious health problems.

So is it ethical? Like most ethical issues, this practice falls into a gray area. It all depends on your particular views. However, there are rare medical cases where ear cutting is deemed necessary. For example, if a dog is born with ears that are larger than normal, or the tips are too high, ear trimming may be necessary to prevent future injury.

How much does it cost to clip a dog’s ears?

If you decide ear cropping is for your dog, the procedure can be quite expensive. The price is usually between $150 and $600. But don’t choose your surgeon based on price alone. It’s best to go to a reputable clinic to have your dog’s ears cropped.

As with other procedures, you should choose a place where they offer the best service. Make sure your clinic maintains good hygiene, has an accommodating staff, and the best surgical equipment and execution.

A fair price for ear cropping in the US is around $300. But that will also vary from state to state. Another factor that can cause the cost to change is the breed of your dog. Some clinics offer different packages based on breed—particularly for dogs that typically have the procedure.

Aside from the procedure itself, there are post-surgery medications, childbirth, and other cost considerations. Some clinics will include this in the package; However, this is not always the case. If recovery is not included in the quoted price, expect an additional cost of around $50-$100.

Surgery and recovery of ear cutting

Your dog’s recovery and aftercare after ear trimming varies from procedure to procedure. For many dogs, the healing process will be relatively quick and easy. The best they will experience is a bit of itching around the stitches as they heal.

However, other puppies may require additional care. Younger puppies need to be monitored closely, especially those who are still nursing from their mother or who have littermates.

Usually, your puppy will need to take some medication to help the recovery process and their bites will need frequent cleaning.

Most dog owners take care of their dogs themselves as it is relatively easy to do. Your veterinarian will let you know if your dog will need more intensive follow-up care after having their ears trimmed.

Should you trim your dog’s ears?

While it’s a controversial practice, ear clipping might be the right procedure for your pup. There are some instances when your dog absolutely needs surgery. If this is the case, it is often recommended to do it at an early age.

You can also have your dog’s ears trimmed for cosmetic purposes – provided you’re in an area where it’s legal. However, if you are ever unsure, you can always consult your veterinarian to find out if ear cropping is the best option for your dog.

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Ear cropping in canines is not a new trend. They have been around for centuries, if not millennia. Dogs used to be circumcised to prevent attackers from clinging to them. Another reason was to improve sound localization and their health. Today, however, pet owners crop their dogs’ ears primarily for aesthetic reasons.

Dobermans are particularly well known for being excellent targets for ear clipping. Because their ears are naturally floppy, they’re a perfect breed for ear clipping to help prick them up. The whole issue of cropping a dog’s ears for their looks is quite controversial. Certain animal rights groups have preached against the practice, claiming it is inhumane, but cultivation is still a reality.

How is ear cutting performed?

Ear cutting in dogs is an invasive surgical procedure performed by a licensed and certified veterinarian. Basically, the vet will put the dog under general anesthesia and cut away the outer tissue of his ear to allow the membrane to erect. Ears are full of nerve endings, so without anesthetic a dog would be in a lot of pain. The vet will remove about 2/3 of the pinna, or as we know it, the floppy region of the ears. Ear clipping is performed between 8 and 10 weeks of age. Some vets may stop working when the puppy is 12 weeks old, but anything beyond that is not possible as the membrane would have hardened beyond the required limit.

How Much Does Doberman Ear Trimming Cost?

This largely depends on the breeder of your pup. Reputable breeders will charge $300 to $600 to crop a Doberman’s ears. There are cheaper ones that only charge $150 for ear cropping. While you can get away with the latter option, it’s always a good idea to look for quality. Working with a Quark or an inexperienced vet could ruin your dog’s life forever.

As a rule of thumb, a price of $300 is fair. Some vets offer additional services such as follow-up care and medication, adding to the cost. Fortunately, most breeders clip Dobermans’ ears before selling them. As expected, you’ll pay more for one with erect ears than one with floppy ears. In addition to working with a reputable veterinarian, you must purchase your puppy from a licensed breeder. There are a lot of genetic diseases that Dobermans are associated with. You don’t want trouble in the future.

Another factor that affects the cost of cropping a Doberman’s ears is your geographic location. If you live in a high-end neighborhood, you may have to spend more money than your friend in a fairly affordable location. Finally, your Doberman’s response to the procedure, his recovery time, and complications (or lack thereof) also affect the cost of trimming in more ways than one.

types of cropping

If you know a thing or two about dog ear cropping, you probably know that in today’s canine world, there are countless styles of cropping that are acceptable. Ideally, there are four main types:

Combat Whip: Defined as the shortest cut, the combat whip does not protect a dog from pesky insects and debris.

Short Crop: This one is slightly longer than the previous one. Typically, the style leaves up to two-thirds of the natural ear.

Show neckline: Also known as the mid-neckline, this style is slightly longer than the second style. Most pet owners prefer this particular style, especially if they own a show dog. If you give your dog a show crop, expect him to have a pleasant, alert gaze. This style, while aesthetically pleasing, is also the most sophisticated. It needs a lot of posting and packaging with others to make sure it stands up appropriately.

Long Goiter: As the name suggests, the long goiter in Dobermans cuts off the smallest part of the ear. For the most part, the dog will retain up to three quarters of its ear after surgery. Aside from Dobermans, pit bulls have been known to adorn this style.

What to expect before and after the procedure

Before the surgery, your dog will undergo preoperative tests to determine their age and health status. Part of the testing includes blood, a coagulation test, and a preoperative chemistry panel. Once the vet gives your dog the green light for surgery, they will administer general anesthesia to turn them off, relax their muscles and reduce pain. The procedure can be performed either with laser technology or manually. The former is unsurprisingly expensive as it is minimally invasive.

After the surgery, the vet will put a cone on your Doberman to keep him from touching and licking the fresh wound. Once the stitches are dry (usually after a week), you will need to take your dog back to the vet to have them removed.

Final Thoughts

There you have it; the cost of cropping a Doberman’s ears. Considering the price range, you should always work with the right veterinarian to ensure nothing goes wrong in the operating room.

Banfield, The Pet Hospital — often found in large pet stores like Petsmart — has stopped cosmetic tail docking and ear clipping.

Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Banfield is the nation’s largest general veterinary practice with more than 730 hospitals and 2,000 veterinarians nationwide. There are at least 13 Banfield locations in Orange County.

According to USA Today, there have been numerous attempts to ban tail docking and ear cutting in several states, most recently Illinois, New York and Vermont. The American Kennel Club has opposed such laws.

In statements opposing them, the AKC says that “as prescribed in certain breed standards, (they) are acceptable practices that are integral to defining and maintaining breed character, improve health and prevent injury” and that “any conclusion that these procedures are cosmetic and unnecessary is a serious mischaracterization that suggests a lack of respect and knowledge of the history and function of purebred dogs.”

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“After careful consideration and review of medical research, we have determined that it is in the best interests of the pets we treat, and the practice as a whole, to stop these unnecessary cosmetic procedures,” said Karen Faunt, vice president of medical quality improvement for Banfield. “We hope that this new medical protocol will help reduce and eventually eliminate these cosmetic procedures.”

In the past, tail docking and ear clipping were typically performed according to breed standards. However, there is little scientific evidence that these cosmetic procedures benefit dogs.

In 2008, the American Veterinary Medical Association strengthened its policy, reaffirming its belief that tail docking and ear clipping should only be performed for therapeutic or preventive purposes.

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Ear cropping is an elective surgery that is currently performed on about 20 dog breeds including Dobermans, Great Danes, Boxers, Schnauzers and many others. This procedure involves the surgical removal of most or all of the flaccid part of the ear. The operation may be followed by taping to place the ear cartilage in the desired position. Historically, surgery was practically performed for these breeds. However, today it is only considered a cosmetic and has been banned in most countries. While it’s still legal in most of North America, there are a few things to consider before you head-grab your pup.

Historical reasons for clipping dogs’ ears

To improve their hearing: WRONG.

Ear clipping has been performed on different breeds for a variety of reasons, primarily hunting, fighting, and working breeds. Some herding and herding breeds had their ears cut off because they were thought to improve their hearing. This justification is not correct.

To prevent ear infections: WRONG.

Although ears have been clipped in the past in the belief that the increased airflow would reduce the likelihood of ear infections, this is not the case. Instead, there are a number of genetic, environmental, dietary, and anatomical reasons why dogs get ear infections. However, studies have not shown a positive correlation between cropped ears and a decrease in the frequency or severity of ear infections.

For intimidation:

Some hunting dogs were docked to prevent their prey, whether rats, bears, cats, or wild boar, from approaching the dog through a simple point of sale. Livestock guard terraces have also been thought to benefit, preventing wolves and coyotes from easily capturing the dog. This was also the idea behind the docking of war dogs and attack dogs. Anyone who has ever had a dog with an ear injury can attest that ears bleed like stuck pigs and are a common site for damage, especially in dogfights.

For protection:

In the past, many guard dogs had their ears clipped to increase the intimidation of their appearance and make them more wolf-like.

The controversy surrounding cropping ears

Most of these historical reasons have been disproved (improving hearing and preventing ear infections) or are no longer valid today. War dogs were predominantly shifted into the herding family, including Malinois, GSDs, and Dutch Shepherds, which generally have naturally standing ears. Dog fighting is illegal, and the most common dogs used for chasing and chasing prey are hounds, whose long ears play an important role in tracking. Although some dogs later in life have parts of their ears removed after some injuries, this is usually in response to injury or repeated trauma and is reactionary, not elective. Whether certain breeds look more intimidating with cropped ears is a matter of opinion. Consider the Rottweilers; They are uncircumcised and are certainly considered intimidating.

Legal aspects of ear cropping to consider

Ear cropping is now considered an elective and cosmetic procedure. it is not necessary. Many countries and breed associations have banned the surgery. It has even been banned in Germany, where some of the most commonly grown breeds and practice likely originated. It remains legal in the US and most of Canada, despite litigation in several states to ban the practice. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) also does not endorse the practice or tail docking when pursued solely for cosmetic purposes, as any surgery involves unnecessary risk to the animal. Currently, however, both the American Kennel Club and the Canadian Kennel Club support the practice and allow registration and exhibition of docked 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 results, including infection, possible loss of the entire ear, or death. Therefore, you should seriously think about it before performing ear clipping. As with any surgery or anesthesia, it carries significant risks. These risks should be discussed at length with your veterinarian before attempting the surgery with a qualified veterinarian.

For the future, things to know about cropping ears

Ear clipping typically occurs between 8 and 12 weeks of age. At this age, puppies are able to safely endure anesthesia. Additionally, waiting much later than 12 weeks means that the cartilage has already started to harden and take on its permanent shape. After surgery, the ears of most breeds and most goiter styles will need to be trained or shaped to stand upright; it doesn’t happen naturally. This requires special bandages and bracing, and may require weekly or more frequent bandage changes, so be prepared for additional vet visits. The cuts will take a few weeks to heal, and then the stitches can be removed. Depending on the training method or how the ears are flattened, the puppy may be at an increased risk of ear infections during this time.

Finally, there are several types of ear grain. Know what you want for your dog before the scalpel falls because in most cases there is no remake.

Veterinarians offering ear coppering services

There are veterinarians in most states who still offer this service. These vets want the ear clipping to be done correctly and with as little pain and stress on the animal as possible. Any surgery is painful, and proper veterinary care can help reduce this and the risk of infection. Do your research, talk to your vet, or get a few opinions beforehand. If you are considering having this surgery for your pup and would like to speak to the vets at Tier 1 about it, we would be happy to discuss the pros, cons, risks and aftercare with you and evaluate your pup for surgery. However, we do not offer ear clipping at level 1.

Tier 1 Veterinary Medical Center in Palmer is Alaska’s only comprehensive animal hospital. In addition to accepting emergencies and walk-in customers, we are available by appointment. With CT, MRI and Ultrasound available on site, our facility offers advanced treatment options for your pet. Contact us today to arrange an appointment.

dr Paige Wallace is the emergency coordinator at Tier 1 Veterinary Medical Center. Born and raised here in the Mat Su Valley, Dr. Wallace continued her education and veterinary training through her service in the US Army. She served as a Captain with the 218th Medical Division Veterinary Service Support under the 62nd Medical Brigade. dr Wallace has extensive experience treating trauma cases in remote areas and with limited resources and brings a wealth of knowledge and thought experience to the Tier 1 VMC team.