To Crop or Not To Crop? Ear Cropping and Health

In 2010, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) declared that ear cropping is not medically necessary for certain breeds and is opposed to the practice of it. More recently, Banfield Pet Hospitals made headlines by changing their policies to prohibit ear cropping and tail docking surgeries. More and more veterinarians are refusing to crop ears on puppies and believe it is only a cosmetic and causes unnecessary pain and doesn’t always work. Some ears never stand up perfectly after cropping and that can be frustrating to the owners.

There are many reasons given as to why ear cropping is a good thing and while it may give a certain breed a different and more “attentive” appearance, it doesn’t improve health. It was once believed that shortening the ears would protect some breeds from being injured as they hunted or did farm work. There are several myths that persist about why some breeds should have their ears cropped. However, the reality is that ear cropping is now more of a cosmetic procedure than practical one.

Here Are 5 Myyths About Ear Cropping

    1. Ear Infections – while having an ear that stands up can improve air flow and cut down on moisture, ear infections can still occur. The ears are no longer able to move to swat away debris, meaning dirt can become lodged in the folds and canals. Ears also move and communicate emotions to other dogs. Floppy ears do require some care. Wiping the ears every few days to keep wax, dirt, and moisture to a minimum is all it takes to prevent ear infections.
    2. Breed Standard – The breed standard may state cropped ears are required but the dogs themselves are born with longer ears. If your dog is not entering any dog shows, why do it? It hurts them and the breed standard for some dogs has changed in the last few years.
    3. Similar to spaying and neutering – Ear cropping does not prevent any diseases. Spaying or neutering your dog can reduce the chances of cancers, ear cropping does not promote any health or wellness.
    4. It’s the choice of the owners – In some states ear cropping is still allowed but laws are changing and it is now seen as a modification that is cruel. Ear cropping, declawing of cat paws, and de-vocalization of dogs are all surgeries that are no longer seen as a harmless procedure.
    5. It’s painless – While the procedure is done while the dog is under anesthesia, the healing process is painful. The ears are wrapped up and they hurt, itch, and overall are uncomfortable.

While a dog may look more regal, more like the breed standard, or more dangerous (if you want your dog to look tough), ear cropping is a long drawn out process that is pricey, cumbersome, and painful for your dog. If you consider going forward and having this procedure done, make sure you are not breaking any state or local laws and take into account that your dog will be in pain.

Take the money you would spend on this and spend it on some awesome dog toys, fancy treats, and a fun trip with your dog instead!

Image from Flickr.com/John M

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