From the Miniature Schnauzer to the Great Dane, a large variety of breeds have been traditionally cropped in many different and unique styles. As a result of this variation, the historical reason for cropping dogs isn’t cut and dry. Some reasons that dogs were cropped historically are:
- Protection from predatory animals like wolves tearing off ears (livestock guardian breeds)
- An intimidating appearance for protection or home guardian breeds
- Ear protection for catch dogs and large game hunters.
While most individual owners choose to crop their dogs because they prefer the way it looks, it all ultimately goes back to the breeders and the fundamental concept of preserving breed type. In the world of purebred dogs, each standard is written based on the breed’s historical functions, which helps to preserve our dog breeds. Just as certain breeds have needed certain coat types, body sizes and head shapes for certain jobs, there are plenty of ear types that characterize historical functions of breeds too. For example, the Basset Hound’s long ears drag on the ground to help pick up scents. Not all Bassets hunt today, but it doesn’t mean their ears must change. Similarly, it would make sense that dog breeds traditionally cropped throughout history are still cropped today. However, many people still bring up ethical concerns about this procedure. Let’s briefly go over what goes on during this time.
-Before the procedure, a blood sample is taken from the dog to check their clotting ability. They will be given antibiotics via an injection to avoid infection and will be anesthetized. Isoflurane is very commonly used, but in more recent times a sedative called Alfaxan has been shown to be very safe for young puppies.
-During the procedure, a veterinary professional who specializes in ear cropping will scrub the ears and use their sterile equipment to perform the crop. After the cut is made, the ear is sutured up. Remember, the puppy doesn’t feel any of this. Before the anesthesia is turned off, an injection of long lasting pain medication is given to keep the pup comfortable when they wake up.
-After the procedure, the pup is sent home with an antibiotic and oral pain medication for optimal comfort. Since this procedure is so minimally invasive, puppies are usually back to normal within the day.
While minimally invasive, some people still believe that cropping is of no benefit to the dog, and therefore nothing justifies it. The following are a few positive medical outcomes that CAN come with the procedure, should you choose to crop your dog. Outside of these, some believe that ear cropping is beneficial because it lowers the risks of torn ears, helps the dog hear better and improve body language.
Lower Rates of Infection to the Ear Canal
There is evidence to suggest that floppy ears are more likely to be infected than erect ears, which makes sense given that a predisposing factor of Otitis Externa is increased in ambient temperature. Floppy ears trap heat and moisture which can attract bacteria or fungus. According to a study, “...dogs with pendulous ears had significantly more Otitis Externa than dogs with other ear types. Dogs with erect ears, regardless of the amount of ear canal hair, had less risk...” (Hayes 1987)
Lower Risk of Ear Hematoma
Aural Hematoma in dogs is the accumulation of blood in the ear flap (pinna). These are normally caused by head shaking from infection or trapped moisture in the ears. Again, they are more common in floppy eared dogs and are painful to deal with, often requiring surgery.
-Elective surgery (excluding medical emergency)
-Health benefits: Eliminates risk of health issues localized to that area (testicular cancer, pyometra)
-Long term health risks: When done before the dog is fully developed: Joint disorders, bone cancer, patellar luxation, fatal pancreatitis, hip dysplasia, CCL rupture, lymphsarcoma, cardiac hemangiosarcoma, transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, prostate carcinoma.
-Invasiveness: Removes whole reproductive organs
-Health benefits: Reduces the risk of health issues localized to the area (hematoma, otitis externa)
Long term health risks: None
-Invasiveness: Reshapes external tissue
