Cropping is best described as removing part of a dog’s ears. Although there has been a lot of controversy regarding this practice, it continues to be a natural part of the life of many breeds, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier. Ears that are cropped give that signature look to any pit bull.
Ear cropping of pit bulls started when these dogs were used for fighting. Rather than risk injury and infection in the event that the other dog snagged, bit or ripped the dog’s ear, cropping became a norm in the dog fighting world. Ear cropping is usually performed around 12 weeks of age, it can also be done on older dogs but the risk of the ears not standing is far greater. I have raised many pit bulls of all shapes and colors and I never had any problems.
Only a qualified veterinarian should perform ear cropping. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and requires technical knowledge to ensure it’s done correctly. Some veterinarians will use sutures that dissolve and no additional visits are needed. In most cases the need to tape or bandage pit bulls ears is not necessary. Because time is required for the scars to heal and the ear muscles to adjust to the new size, recovery can take up to 2 weeks on average. This is only if the ears healed without an infection. In some cases where the procedure is not completely successful, the Pit Bull’s ears may still be floppy and the need to place posts may be necessary. Posting of the ears can be done by simply placing a tightly rolled up paper towel usually the size of the dogs ear and taping it in a way where the ear remains erect. Make sure that the tape is not too tight as it may cause blood circulation problems losing the ear all together. The post can be worn for about 3-5 days, leave it off for 2 days and back on for another 3-5 days. I will include a how to video demonstration on the next update.
There is much controversy involving the practice of ear cropping. Many breeders and owners have the process done so their Pit Bull will conform to the standard breed requirements for show dogs, while others believe ear cropping is not only unnecessary but also very cruel. Some countries have made ear cropping illegal such as Australia, United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, Germany and South Africa.
Although many states in the United States have tried to ban ear cropping, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has continued to oppose this ban. The belief of the American Kennel Club is that ear cropping is an acceptable practice in certain breed standards and an integral part in not only defining but preserving the character of the breed, preventing injuries and enhancing their overall good health.
The AKC also states that anyone that believes this procedure is unnecessary and cosmetic does not have a full knowledge and respect of the history of the breed or the function of certain purebred dogs.
For purposes of the UKC (United Kennel Club) show dog, the ears on the Pit Bull can be cropped or uncropped. However, ears that are uncropped must be short and held half prick. Ears with a full drop will result in the dog being penalized.