Veterinarian Owned

06/20/08

    Dobermans traditionally have their ears trimmed between 9-12 weeks of age. Cropping done after 12 weeks of age is associated with a lower success rate for the ears to stand. In my line of work, I seldom see dogs with erect ears have ear infections. This is because the ear that is standing erect allows air to circulate and this keeps the canal dry, thus not allowing bacteria to set up an infection. Most of the breeds with histories of serious ear infections are those who have heavy pendulous ears that do not allow air to circulate. Long floppy ears are also more prone to injuries (dog bites and hematomas) and one of the most painful and troublesome conditions to treat in dogs is chronic ear infections (Otitis Externa).  Also, erect ears in the canine species allows for better sound localization and this is important in dogs that also serve as guardians and protectors.

    The procedure involves cutting away the outer portion of the ear. The remaining ear flap and the cartilage is trained to stand by "posting" the ears with some form of training aid until the cartilage is strong enough to hold the ear up. The dog will still have the ability to lay the ears back or down. The posting usually takes several weeks but can take longer with longer "show" trims.

    The traditional look of the Doberman is one that has both the ears and tails trimmed. As stated, this not only completes the sleek look of the Doberman, as was originally intended, but serves many medically functional purposes as well. All of our dogs have had their ears cropped and have handled it very well. They have been treated with great care and gentleness other than a little head shaking from the itching of the healing ears, did fine. Whether to crop the ears or not is an individual decision and we leave it up to the owner. Also, since bonding to the family is believed to begin at 49 days (7 weeks), most owners want their puppies at this time to properly bond to the new family. Since ears are not trimmed until 9-12 weeks, this would delay the new owner from taking their puppy home and bonding with it for those critical few weeks. It has been MY experience that the bonded puppies seem to do better in the families, but that is only one persons opinion.

    Ear cropping usually costs an additional $250-$450 depending on the animal hospital and any ancillary services besides the trim itself. You should check with your regular veterinarian to see if they offer this service or if they have a veterinarian that they can recommend. This is a procedure that is not taught in school, so experience counts. 

TEPHILLOT DOBERMANS

Dayton, TN. 37321