What is an ear crop?
As many dog owners know, there are several different dog breeds that are often altered by the process called ear cropping. Pit bulls, Dobermans, Great Danes, Min Pins, Boxers and Schnauzers are just a few of the breeds whose ears are commonly cropped. Owners have many reasons for having their dog’s ears cropped. Many feel that the dog appears to be more of “show quality” with cropped ears. Others believe that dogs are required to have their ears cropped to be shown or even be registered by the AKC. Some owners are under the impression that this is a necessary surgery and opt to have it done for that reason. Finally, it is a common misconception that dogs have fewer ear problems when their ears are cropped as opposed to leaving them floppy and natural. There are some facts that owners don’t realize, however. The American Kennel Club does not require that any breed of dog have their ears cropped in order to be shown or registered. Breed standards apply for dogs with both cropped and natu
