Ear cropping is a procedure performed on young puppies that alters the shape of the ear.
It also changes the way that the ears sit, encouraging them to stand up straight instead of flopping over.
There is some debate about whether cropping is necessary or just a cosmetic procedure. Making the right choice for your dog starts by understanding the benefits.
What is Ear Cropping?
Ear cropping in Cane Corsos refers to the removal of part of the dog’s external ear flap.
This is usually performed on Cane Corso puppies between the ages of 7 and 12 weeks. At this age, it’s less painful and your Cane Corso is less likely to remember the procedure.
After up to two-thirds of the ear flap has been removed, the edges are stitched and the ears are bandaged to allow for healing.
When the ear has healed fully, your Cane Corso will be left with shorter ears that stand up.
This is part of the breed standard and is required to show your dog in many dog shows. But, it also has some more practical benefits.
Ear cropping is usually done on Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Cane Corsos, and Great Danes.
Why Crop Your Cane Corso’s Ears?
Reduce the Risk of Ear Infections
Cane Corsos with floppy ears are prone to painful infections. This is due to the lack of airflow through the ear to dry it out as well as how hard they are to clean.
Ear infections are often seen as a minor struggle. But they can have big consequences!
Chronic ear infections or those left untreated can cause disfigurement or permanent hearing loss.
Ears that have been cropped have an upright position.
This allows you to see into the ears and clean them effectively. It also increases the air circulation through the ear, drying it up and preventing infections from developing.
Prevent Injury
The large, floppy ears that Cane Corsos naturally have may actually put them at risk for injuries.
Floppy ears may look adorable. But, they aren’t the most conducive to the role of these working dogs.
The breed has long been valued as a guard dog. They work both by protecting people and their homes as well as protecting livestock.
If a wolf or other predator were to bite onto your dog’s ears, they can rip causing a severe injury. They have also been known to catch on fences and other obstacles when chasing off intruders.
A tear or rip of the ear likely isn’t going to be life-threatening. But, it can cause scars, unnecessary pain, and other potential complications.
Cane Corsos that enjoy play dates with other dogs can also prevent an accidental injury.
During play, dogs often grab onto anything that they can. This includes collars, limbs, and, when they are long and floppy, ears!
Fight Parasite Infestations
Living outdoors with the livestock, Cane Corsos are exposed to many different parasites.
This includes ticks, mites, lice, and fleas.
When the ear is folded over, it creates a protected hiding place for these parasites to take hold. It also makes it harder to see that an infestation has begun.
When the ears are cropped, that dark, safe hiding place is no longer present.
Unable to hide, these pests are then discovered and addressed.
