EAR CROPS

Ear cropping, or cosmetic otoplasty, is performed on the ears of certain breeds of dogs to meet breed specifications.  This procedure is done on Schnauzers, Miniature Pinscers, Dobermans, Boxers, Pit Bulls, Boston Terriers and Great Danes.  However, if you own one of these breeds, you do not have to have this surgery preformed. 

There is some controversy about this procedure because it is viewed as an unnecessary surgery for cosmetic purposes only.  Veterinarians in Britain do not perform this surgery at all and the procedure is not taught in many veterinary teaching institutions.  We offer this surgery because it is our belief that it strengthens the human-animal bond for our pets to look a certain way.  Many of these breeds will look just as handsome without having their ears cut.  However, I’m sure that many of you will agree that Dobermans and Great Danes are two breeds that have a completely different appearance based upon whether their ears are trimmed.

Regardless of the trimming standard, all ears cannot be trimmed alike.  Variations are justified in any breed, and shape and length of the ear vary with the sex and conformation of the individual dog.  The type of ear trim performed here is a ‘straight’ cut following the natural curve of the ear.  This hospital does not perform ‘show cuts’.   We encourage you to discuss with the Doctor or Technician your preferences on ear width and length prior to surgery.

• Schnauzer                     2/3 of ear left

• Boxer                           2/3 to ¾ of ear left

• Doberman                    ¾ of ear left

• Great Dane                   ¾ to 7/8 of ear left

• Min Pin                        2/3 to ¾ of ear left

• Pit Bulls                        3/5 of ear left (this is not a ‘fighting’ cut)

• Boston Terrier              ¾ to full trim

General Considerations

The surgery is performed at 12 weeks of age.  Sometimes the surgery can be done at a later age, however, the chance of the ear successfully standing after surgery decreases with age.  Even when performed at 12 weeks of age there is no guarantee that both ears will stand erect after surgery.  Surgery only shapes the ear.  Whether or not the ear stands up well has to do with the strength of the ear cartilage.  At this age, the cartilage can usually be trained to stand erect.

All puppies having this procedure performed need to be in general good health and current on vaccinations.  If a puppy is malnourished, heavily parasitized, and in poor condition, the surgery will be delayed until the health of the puppy is improved.  The stress of anesthesia and surgery may suppress the puppy’s immune system and may increase susceptibility to infection.