Have you ever seen a Doberman with ears that stand up naturally? If not, then you’re probably wondering how exactly their owners make them do that. It’s much simpler than you might think and doesn’t require surgery or cutting. In this article, we’ll teach you how to make your Doberman’s ears stand up using nothing but basic training techniques. Let’s get started!
The History of Doberman Ear Cropping
The practice of ear cropping in Doberman Pinschers can be traced back to the breed’s early history when they were used as guard dogs. The dog’s ears cropped made the them appear more intimidating and signaled their role as protective animals. However, cropping ears is also a form of animal cruelty and has been banned in many countries.
Some continue to crop their Dobermans’ ears for traditional or aesthetic reasons, but many breeders speak out against the practice. The American Kennel Club now only allows uncropped ears of Dobermans to compete in conformation shows. Ear cropping may have been part of the Doberman’s history, but it’s time for this cruel tradition to be left in the past.
Why Some People Choose to Crop Their Doberman’s Ears
There are many reasons why some Doberman owners choose to crop their dog’s natural ears.
Some do it for purely aesthetic reasons, wanting their dog to fit a specific breed standard.
Others believe it may make the dog more intimidating or protect its ears in a fight since soft floppy ears can be injured easily. However, ear cropping is not without controversy and is even banned in some countries. Many experts argue that ear cropping can have severe consequences for the dogs ears, including chronic pain and infection.
The American Veterinary Medical Association believes ear cropping should only be performed for medical purposes by a licensed veterinarian.
Ultimately, the decision to crop a Doberman’s ears should be made carefully and fully understand the possible risks and repercussions.
How To Make Doberman Ears Stand Up Without Cropping
Several ways to perfect this are through:
1) Consistent Taping
While ear cropping remains controversial, some Doberman owners may still want their pet’s ears to stand upright/ erect ears. One way to achieve this without surgery is through consistent taping. Using medical-grade adhesive tape, the ears should be taped to the desired upright position at least twice a day for 2-3 months.
Each taping session must be gentle yet firm, with pressure applied evenly and consistently across the ear. In addition, regular checking and cleaning of the ears are essential to prevent discomfort or infection. Ultimately, while this taping method may require patience and dedication, it can be a successful alternative for achieving upright ears in Dobermans.
2) Brushing Up
One way to train Doberman ears to stand upright without cropping is through daily brushing sessions. Start by gently brushing the ear from the base up toward the tip. This helps stimulate blood flow and trains the ear to stand upright in its natural position.
Repeat this process on both ears for a few minutes each day, slowly increasing the duration of the brushing sessions as your dog gets used to the activity.
In addition to daily brushing, lifting and holding the ears upright can further train them to stay in position naturally. Consistency is critical – by offering daily brushing and exercise sessions, you can encourage your Doberman’s ears to stand upright without sacrificing their health or causing discomfort.
3) Ear “exercises.”
Many dog owners enjoy the perk of having a breed with perky, upright ears, such as Dobermans and German Shepherds. While some opt for artificial cropping to achieve this look, there are alternative options for training your dog’s ears to stand up without surgical intervention. One such method is through ear exercises.
Using your hand or an exercise tool designed explicitly for this purpose, gently massage the base of your dog’s ear in circular motions for about 5-10 minutes daily. This helps strengthen the muscles that hold the ear in place and can lead to naturally standing ears over time.
It’s important to remember that this may not work for every dog, as genetics play a role in ear shape and structure. With patience and consistent training, however, many dogs can benefit from these exercises and achieve the desired upright ear appearance without surgery or discomfort.
The Pros and Cons of Cropping Your Doberman’s Ears
Consider a few pros and cons before cropping your Doberman’s ears.
Some people believe that cropping gives the dog a neater appearance and makes them look more intimidating, which may be beneficial if you’re using your dog for protection. Ear cropping can also help reduce the risk of ear infections, as long ears provide a dark, moist environment for bacteria to grow.
In addition, cropped ears may be easier to clean and care for than uncropped ones.
On the other hand, cropping is a very invasive procedure that requires general anesthesia. There is also a risk of complications, such as infection, pain, and nerve damage.
In addition, ears cropped can make it more difficult for your dog to communicate and express emotions. As a result, many believe cropping is an unnecessary practice that does more harm than good.
Common Myths About Cropping Doberman Ears
One common myth about cropping a Doberman’s ears is that it makes them more intimidating or aggressive. In reality, a dog’s temperament and behavior are determined by genetics and training, not physical appearance.
Additionally, many countries have banned ear cropping due to acts of cruelty and animal welfare concerns. It’s important to note that there are ways to achieve the “cropped” look without subjecting a dog to the painful and unnecessary procedure.
Using tape or acupuncture treatments can train the ears to stand erect, as can carefully trimming excess fur around the base of the ear.
Supporting the ear with a stand during the puppy stage can encourage proper growth. Ultimately, it’s up to owners and breeders to do their research and make informed choices about their pets’ health and well-being.
Conclusion
Using the necessary tools and patience, anyone can train their dog’s ears to stand upright without cropping. While this method may not work for every dog, it’s a cruelty-free alternative with little to no risks. Before beginning any ear training regimen, consult a veterinarian to get professional guidance and ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
