Cropping ears

[Big guy]

Can I ask why the ears of some of the CC get cropped or cut? Sorry, not sure of the proper term. Is it to make them look tough, a breed standard requirement?

I have found with owing big dogs, most people are already scared enough and with the cropped ears they look pretty tough and with there ears untouched they look a bit softer.

I know some breeds such as the Doberman have work on their ears as well and I have also been curious as to why.

Please don't offence as none is intended, just thought I would ask the question

 

[BlackShadowCaneCorso]

The Cane Corso was historically a working breed and their ears were cropped for those reason, to prevent injury to them or to be used as leverage if they were in a fight with a predator. It is written in the breed standard that the ears are cropped but a lot of standards are also allowing for a natural ear, so some are opting to leave it. At this point in time unless you are working your dog like they did in the past it is for looks and in some cases to help with medical reasons like cutting down on ear infections as it allows the air to circulate. It is also hard to champion a dog with ears against those that don't in a show ring.

In the end it is personal preference, but I don't in particular care if people thinks it makes them look mean. I was taught never to judge a book by its cover and as long as someone means no harm they will never have to worry if they can get mean enough to back those ears up. Bother the kids and I and I assure you the ears will be the least of your worries (This isn't directed at you personally, more a general statement but as a general statement for those that think the ears make or break a dog)

 

[Big guy]

Hi Mary,

I appreciate your explanation and agree with your comments about looks. I have a DDB who is only 6 months old and some people are already judging her based on pre-conceived ideas and views which really gets under my skin.

As I wasn't fully aware of the reasoning behind the cropping, I thought I would ask so I was guilty of making the same mistake.

 

[ItalianStallion]

Based off a reading, many moons ago a crop could also be to give the look of an alert dog, to ward off predators even before they are close enough to do anything. One of those things that doesn't need to be said (if they could talk) the animal kingdom knows what it means when ears go up. Even if he is sawing logs, his ears are perked, could make someone/something think twice... Made sense when I read it was a large article.