Ear cropping is one of the normative elective surgeries conducted on dogs, along with tail docking.
Although various groups have argued the practice of doing such in canines to be cruel and unnecessary, there are still entities and people that practice such.
One of the canines where ear cropping is applied is the Doberman Pinscher.
If you own a Dobie and plan to have their ears trimmed, there are some things you should be aware of.
This post will list the dos and don’ts a pet owner must remember after cropping Doberman Pinschers’ ears.
History of Ear Cropping in Dogs
Before dwelling on aftercare, you must first understand why ear cropping is practiced.
It would be unruly to do something without understanding the principles governing an activity.
From a historical perspective, ear cropping among Doberman dogs has been explained by the roots from the past ages.
When hunting has been the culture among natives, having exposed ears would be counterintuitive as these may be ripped or torn along the process.
Moreover, attackers might grab undocked tails to subdue the Doberman.
Earlier, ear cropping is still actively practiced, not hunting reasons other than to suit one’s aesthetics taste.
The American Kennel Club adds that having cropped ears defines and preserves the character of a particular breed.
Dogs in which Ear Cropping is Employed
Aside from the Doberman Pinscher, here are other dog breeds where ear cropping is practiced:
- Brussels Griffon
- Beauceron
- American Pitbull Terrier
- Great Dane
- Miniature Pinscher
- Schnauzer
- Boston Terrier
- Boxer
- Caucasian Shepherd
Generally, ear cropping can apply to any dog breed.
However, above are the common breeds where ear cropping is done.
But before proceeding to the nitty-gritty of the discussion for this post, why do some vets argue against the practice of ear cropping? Let us find out.
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Reasons behind the Opposition towards Ear Cropping
For over 30 years, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has been fighting against the practice of tail docking and ear cropping in dogs.
They believe that the validity of cropping dogs’ ears is no longer the norm and is now a part of dogs’ dark history, which includes pit fighting, board hunting, bear baiting, etc.
All of which is not and should not be practiced today.
Ergo employing such practices on dogs is now only based on aesthetic preferences and cosmetic reasons.
Providing better appearance to the human eye at the expense of our poor furry friends’ pain and suffering.
Some states in the US and other countries have moved towards banning ear cropping as well as tail docking in dog breeds, which may be attributed to the 3-decade plight of AVMA for dogs’ sake.
Dos and Don’ts in Ear Cropping Aftercare of Dobies
Nevertheless, if you happen to have your Dobie’s ear cropped, you should be aware of what you should do after the surgical process.
First and foremost, do not attempt to trim the ears on your own.
Always rely on vets and other experts to do such meticulous activity.
Do’s:
1. Ask your vet about the specific steps in looking after your dog’s ear
We can only provide as much info on the matter, but experts know the specific setting’s specific aftercare.
2. Let the ears hang freely after cropping
Dogs wound the same way humans do. And applying bandages or tape over the wound right after cropping will only provide an adequate bacterial infection environment.
Another option is to tape the dog’s ears from the base to keep them both upright.
Just not to the point where they are leaning towards each other.
3. Revisit the veterinarian in 7-10 days after cropping
The stitching usually heals during this time.
Thus, it will need to be removed by an expert to let the wound heal on its own.
Make sure to observe properly for recovery signs and bring them to the vet based on your analysis.
4. Apply ointment or solutions as suggested by the vet
If your vet suggests or prescribes solutions or other ointments, apply it to the wound to hasten its recovery or cleanse it from potential infections.
But only use as directed by the vet.
5. Observe for insect parasites
When they begin shaking their head or show signs of discomfort, there might be mites or scabs present.
Apply the suggested ointment or call your vet for countermeasures.
6. Call your vet if something comes up
Online google searches are great. But for the breed and situation-specific concerns, make sure to call your vet and inform him of the matter.
Don’ts:
1. Cover the edges of the pointed ears
When the wound is fresh, it is better to leave it out in the open exposed to air to not develop into a bacterial infection.
Covering the ears with tape or bandages will only incubate the wounds and promote disease.
2. Put on an Elizabethan collar
The famous cone of shame is used to keep dogs from scratching or licking wounds.
Although it serves a good purpose, putting the collar will only rub into the dogs’ ears, thus, lengthening the healing time and causing irritation.
3. Do things on your own
Having expert guidance will always be the best course of action when taking care of your dog’s cropped ears.
If something unusual comes up, make sure to give your vet a call.
Key Takeaway
As much as experts fight against ear cropping, some owners want to do it anyway to serve their aesthetic tastes.
If you plan to have your Dobie’s ears cropped, make sure to remember the tips provided above on the do’s and don’ts for ear cropping aftercare.
Your dog matters as much as you do.
Make sure to provide them the best attention and care you can give.
