Arguments in favor of ear cropping
- Improved ear health: Some believe that cropping pitbull puppies' ears can help improve their ear health. Because their ears are often long and floppy, can be prone to infections due to moisture buildup and dirt or debris getting trapped inside. Cropping the ears can allow air to circulate more easily, which can reduce the risk of infections.
- Better hearing: It is argued that cropping pitbull puppies' ears can improve their hearing by removing the weight of their ears, which can obstruct the ear canals. This can be beneficial for a breed like pitbulls, which rely heavily on their sense of hearing.
- Aesthetic reasons: Many people simply prefer the look of cropped ears on pitbull puppies. They believe that it gives the dogs a more alert and intimidating appearance.
Arguments against ear cropping
- Unnecessary pain: The cropping of pitbull puppies' ears is a surgical procedure that can cause pain and discomfort to the puppy. The procedure typically involves cutting off a significant portion of the ear, and the puppy will need to wear a bandage or splint for several weeks to allow the ears to heal.
- Increased risk of infection: Some experts believe that cropping pitbull puppies' ears can increase the risk of infection. The procedure creates an open wound that is susceptible to infection, and the use of bandages or splints can further irritate the area.
- Cosmetic reasons: Some people argue that cropping pitbull puppies' ears is purely a cosmetic procedure that is unnecessary and cruel. They believe that all dogs, regardless of their breed, should be allowed to keep their natural ears.
In addition to the above arguments, there are also ethical concerns to consider when making the decision of whether or not to crop your pitbull puppy's ears. Some people believe that cropping ears is a form of animal cruelty and that it is unethical to alter a dog's natural body for aesthetic reasons.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to crop your pitbull puppy's ears is a personal one. If you are considering having the procedure done, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and to talk to your veterinarian about the potential risks and benefits.