Ear Cropping
Make an informed decision for your pet.
Certain dog breeds, like Doberman Pinschers and Great Danes, that we’ve all come to recognize for pointy ears are actually born with naturally floppy ears. These dogs are given erect ears via an elective, cosmetic surgery known as ear cropping.
What You Should Know About Ear Cropping
What Is Ear Cropping?
Ear cropping is a veterinary surgical procedure called cosmetic otoplasty. The surgery removes part of all of a puppy’s auricles or pinnae, which are the external, visible flap of the ears.
Is Ear Cropping Necessary?
Ear cropping was once performed for perceived practical benefits. However, we now know that ear cropping offers dogs no physical, medical, or environmental advantage. Ear cropping is not medically indicated and is a completely elective procedure. Ear cropping is performed solely for cosmetic reasons with the intent of meeting certain breed standards.
Like all surgical procedures, ear cropping involves a painful recovery and carries the risks inherently associated with surgery and general anesthesia. These risks include potential reactions to medications, the possibility of infection, and blood loss.
Which Dog Breeds Have Cropped Ears?
Where ear cropping is legally permitted, it’s only typical for puppies of certain breeds to have their ears cropped. These breeds include:
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Boxer
- Doberman Pinschers
- Great Dane
- Pitbull
- Schnauzer
Should Your Puppy's Ears Be Cropped?
Deciding whether or not your puppy’s ears should be cropped is a very personal decision. The choice depends on your puppy’s health and how important it is to you that your dog meets specific breed standards. For most owners, it comes down to whether they intend to show their dogs or keep them simply as companions. Our veterinarian can help you decide which option is best for your dog and lifestyle.
When to Crop a Puppy's Ears
The age at which a puppy’s ears are cropped depends greatly on the puppy’s breed and individual development. However, we typically will not crop the ears of any puppy over five months of age.
Ear Cropping Aftercare and Follow-Up Exams in Fort Worth
Without proper care, the perfect ear cropping can still result in floppy ears. It’s essential that clients follow our veterinarian’s aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments as instructed. We’ll ensure your puppy’s ears heal properly, help you avoid infection with proper wound care, and guide you through the healing process.
Ear Cropping Helpful Links
Interested In Having Your Dog’s Ears Cropped? It’s best to be as prepared as possible for your dog’s procedure. Check out these pages to learn more, or contact us today.
To learn more about ear cropping or to find out if your puppy is a candidate for the procedure, schedule a consultation for your puppy at South Meadow Animal Clinic in Fort Worth by calling (817) 370-5566.
