Cropping (animal)

Historically, cropping was performed on working dogs as it was believed it would decrease the risk of health complications, such as ear infections or hematomas.

The ears of these guardian dogs—such as the Caucasian Shepherd Dog[6] and the Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog—were traditionally cropped to reduce the possibility of wolves or opponent-dogs getting a grip on them.

In 2000, veterinarian Bruce Fogle wrote:[12][D]ogs have their ears partly amputated—'cropped' is the benign word people like to use—for no other reason than to make them look fierce.

This is primarily a German tradition, born out of the military origins and uses of breeds like Great Danes, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, and Schnauzers.

Many dedicated, dog-loving veterinarians will no longer carry out these alterations.The veterinary procedure is known as "cosmetic otoplasty",[1] and involves the removal of a portion of the pinnae, the external flap of the ear.

[14] American veterinary schools do not generally teach cropping (or docking), and thus veterinarians who perform the practice have to learn on the job.

[16] In the US, although tail-docking, dewclaw removal, and neutering procedures remain common, ear-cropping is declining, except within the dog show industry.

[16] The AKC position is that ear cropping and tail docking are "acceptable practices integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health.

"[20] While some individual states have attempted to ban ear-cropping,[21] there is strong opposition from some dog breed organizations, who cite health concerns and tradition.

[23] In 2009, veterinary chain Banfield Pet Hospital announced they would no longer do tail docking, ear cropping or devocalization on dogs.