Schnauzer Ear Cropping: Understanding the Procedure and Risks

Schnauzer ear cropping is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping a puppy's ears to prevent infections and improve their appearance. The procedure is typically performed on puppies between 8 and 12 weeks old.

The goal of ear cropping is to prevent ear infections, which are common in schnauzers due to their floppy ears. Ear infections can be painful and even lead to serious health issues if left untreated.

Schnauzers have been bred for centuries to have distinctive beards and eyebrows, but their floppy ears were not a part of their original breed characteristics. In fact, the breed was developed in Germany in the 15th century as a guard dog and ratter.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has expressed concerns about ear cropping, stating that it is a cosmetic procedure that may not be necessary for the dog's health.

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Ear cropping is a contentious issue in the dog world, with many organizations and people speaking out against the practice.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association, both in the US, have issued statements opposing ear cropping.

Most veterinary professional organizations around the world share this stance, citing the potential for pain and complications.

In the US, only nine states restrict ear cropping, but no state completely bans the procedure.

A law banning ear cropping was recently passed in Quebec, and will take effect in February 2024.

Some breeders and owners prefer the look of certain breeds with cropped ears, but ear cropping is not medically necessary and may harm the dog.

In fact, the AKC recognizes ear cropping in about 20 breeds of dogs, but it's not required for registration.

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Some people think ear cropping is necessary to prevent ear infections, but a healthy diet and good grooming practices can do the job just as well.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) says ear cropping is permitted, but not required, which suggests that it's not as essential as some people claim.

Tradition is another reason people give for ear cropping, but just because it's been done for a long time doesn't make it right.

Some people compare ear cropping to ear piercing, but the two procedures are very different - ear piercing doesn't require anesthesia and doesn't involve removing part of the ear.

Dogs do yelp in pain when they bump their bandaged ears, which suggests that ear cropping is not as painless as some people claim.

Here are some common misconceptions about ear cropping:

Ear cropping is a practice that's surrounded by controversy, and its legality varies by country and region.

In the United States, only nine states restrict ear cropping, and no state completely bans the procedure.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association are among the organizations that oppose ear cropping, citing pain and potential complications.

In the UK, ear cropping is illegal under the Animal Welfare Act in England and Wales.

Some provinces in Canada, like Newfoundland, PEI, and Nova Scotia, have also made ear cropping illegal.

In the US, only four states require ear cropping to be done by a licensed veterinarian.

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Choosing the right ear crop style for your Giant Schnauzer is crucial. There are two main crop styles for Giant Schnauzers: Short Show crop and Tall Show Crop.

The Short Show crop and Tall Show Crop have the greatest chance of standing erect. Ears that are cropped too long, or too short, are less likely to stand erect without proper posting.

You should choose an ear crop style before finding a vet, as some vets may only perform one style based on the breeds they're familiar with. Make sure your vet has experience with Giant Schnauzer ear crops, especially if you're opting for a short crop or tall show crop.

It's essential to find a vet who can perform the desired ear crop style, as ears that are cropped too short may lay flat on the dog's head. On the other hand, ears that are cropped too long may have cartilage that's too thin to support the weight of the ear, requiring proper posting.

Consulting with local breeders or bringing pictures of ear crops you like can help you find a vet who's experienced with the style you want.

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You'll want to ask your vet two things when discussing ear cropping: what the total price includes, and whether they can provide the ear crop style you want. The price should include everything, including the procedure itself, follow-up visit, and any medications.

Some vets may only crop ears one way, so make sure they can provide what you want. This is especially important if you're looking for a specific style, like a short crop or tall show crop.

It's a good idea to ask your breeder or other local breeders for recommendations on who to use for ear cropping. They likely know who's best at this type of procedure and can point you in the right direction.

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Most veterinarians will refuse to crop a Giant Schnauzer's ears after a certain age, typically ranging from 12 to 16 weeks.

Some veterinarians may also refuse to crop a dog's ears at a certain weight, usually between 15 and 20 pounds.

You can probably find a vet who is willing to crop per the owner's wishes, but it doesn't mean the ears will come out right.

Other veterinarians have no cutoff date and will perform the ear cropping procedure at any age or weight.

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Choosing a Veterinarian is a crucial decision for any pet owner. You'll want to find a vet who is a good fit for you and your pet.

Asking the right questions is key to finding a vet who meets your needs. You'll want to ask them about their pricing, including what's included in the cost of a procedure.

The price should include everything, including the procedure itself, the follow-up visit, and any medications (pain medicine and potentially antibiotics). This will help you avoid unexpected expenses down the line.

Some vets may have specific policies or limitations, such as only cropping ears one way. Make sure you find a vet who can provide what you want.

Follow your vet's instructions carefully, as they are crucial to your Giant Schnauzer's healing process.

The cone is a must-have to prevent your pup from ripping their stitches, so put it back on whenever you're not watching them.

Keep your Giant Schnauzer's ears clean until they've healed by using peroxide and Neosporin at least 2 or 3 times a day.

Remove any scabs on your dog's ears immediately, as they can interfere with the ears standing up properly.

Soak scabs in water for 5 minutes before removing them to make the process less painful.

Be on the lookout for signs of infection, such as redness, oozing discharge, or swelling, and take your dog back to the vet right away if you notice any.

A healthy diet is essential for your dog's recovery, so make sure to provide them with food supplements twice a day during the post-op period.

Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind: