
Cropping a Dogo Argentino's ears can lead to serious health issues, including ear infections, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Ear infections are a common problem in cropped ears, with a 50% chance of developing an infection within the first year after surgery.
The risk of ear infections increases due to the ear's inability to properly ventilate and dry after being cropped.
This can lead to painful and potentially life-threatening conditions, such as septicemia, which can occur when bacteria spread to the bloodstream.
The Practice of Cropping Ears
The American Kennel Club created a new breed called the dogo Argentino, which involves cropping the dog's ears to achieve a desired look.
The American Veterinary Medical Association opposes ear cropping, deeming it purely cosmetic.
Ear cropping has been banned in parts of Canada and in all of Australia, New Zealand, and Scandinavia.
Banfield Pet hospitals, one of the largest vet chains in America, discontinued ear cropping and tail docking in 2009.
Several local veterinarians also refuse to participate in ear cropping, calling it mutilation.
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The Controversy Surrounding Ear Cropping
The American Kennel Club created the dogo Argentino, a breed with cropped ears, which raises concerns about animal welfare.
The American Veterinary Medical Association opposes ear cropping, deeming it purely cosmetic.
Ear cropping has been banned in parts of Canada and in all of Australia, New Zealand, and Scandinavia.
Several vets, including those from Banfield Pet hospitals, one of the largest vet chains in America, will not participate in ear cropping due to its unnecessary nature.
Why Breeders Crop Ears
Ear cropping is a surgical procedure that involves cutting off a portion of a dog's ears, typically for aesthetic or functional reasons. In some breeds, ear cropping is a long-standing tradition that dates back to ancient times.
The practice of ear cropping is most commonly associated with breeds like the Doberman Pinscher, Boxer, and Great Dane. In these breeds, ear cropping is often done to prevent ear injuries or infections.
Ear injuries can occur when a dog's ears are long and floppy, as they can get caught in debris or get torn by sharp objects. This is especially true for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or engage in activities that put their ears at risk.
However, some veterinarians and animal welfare organizations argue that ear cropping is a form of unnecessary surgery that can cause pain and complications for the dog.
Curious to learn more? Check out: When Is It Too Late to Crop a Dog's Ears?
Health Risks Associated with Ear Cropping
Ear cropping, a common practice in some dog breeding traditions, has been linked to various health risks.
One of the primary concerns is the risk of hemolacria, a condition where dogs bleed from their ears due to the surgical procedure.
Dogs with cropped ears are also more prone to ear infections, which can be painful and potentially life-threatening.
Ear infections can lead to serious complications, such as abscesses and sepsis, which can be fatal.
In addition to these risks, ear cropping can also cause chronic pain and discomfort for dogs.
Dogs with cropped ears may also experience anxiety and stress due to the altered shape of their ears.
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The Impact on Dog Welfare
The practice of cropping a Dogo Argentino's ears can lead to serious health complications, including chronic pain and increased risk of infections.
Dogs with cropped ears are more prone to ear infections due to the lack of natural ear flaps, which can cause the ear canal to become a moist, warm environment perfect for bacterial growth.
This can result in a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain, and may require antibiotics or even surgery to treat.
Alternatives to Ear Cropping
If you're considering alternatives to ear cropping for your dog, there are several options to explore.
Ear cropping is a painful and unnecessary procedure for many breeds, with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) stating that it's not medically necessary for most dogs.
Some breeds, like the Doberman Pinscher, are often required to have their ears cropped to meet breed standards.
However, many breeders and owners are now choosing not to crop their dogs' ears, and it's having a positive impact on their welfare.
The AVMA recommends that veterinarians not perform ear cropping for non-therapeutic reasons, citing concerns about animal welfare and the lack of scientific evidence supporting the practice.
Breeds like the Cane Corso and the Estrela Mountain Dog are among those that are naturally erect-eared, making ear cropping unnecessary.
Research has shown that ear cropping can lead to chronic pain, infection, and other complications, making it a risk that many owners are no longer willing to take.
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Physical and Emotional Consequences

Dogs that experience separation anxiety can suffer from physical symptoms like excessive barking, howling, and pacing, which can lead to a worn-out dog.
Some dogs may also experience gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, due to stress.
Dogs that are left alone for extended periods can develop anxiety-related behaviors like destructive chewing and digging.
Separation anxiety can also cause emotional distress for both dogs and their owners, leading to feelings of guilt and anxiety.
In extreme cases, separation anxiety can lead to self-soothing behaviors like excessive licking or chewing, which can cause skin irritation and infections.
Advocacy for Ear Preservation
Ear cropping has been deemed purely cosmetic by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
The American Kennel Club created the Dogo Argentino breed, which involved cropping the dog's ears to achieve a desired look.
Banfield Pet hospitals, one of the largest vet chains in America, discontinued ear cropping in 2009.
In fact, several vets locally refuse to participate in ear cropping, considering it a form of mutilation.
Ear cropping has been banned in parts of Canada and in all of Australia, New Zealand, and Scandinavia.
It's worth noting that ear cropping has no health benefits for dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can you crop a Dogo Argentino's ears?
For a Dogo Argentino, the ideal age to crop ears is between 10-12 weeks. This procedure is typically performed during this early puppy stage to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Does cropping a dog's ears hurt?
Yes, ear cropping can be a painful procedure for dogs, especially if done without proper anaesthetic or pain relief. It's essential to understand the risks and potential discomfort involved in this surgery.
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