How to Make Doberman Ears Stand Up Without Cropping : A Cruelty-Free Guide

Achieving the Perfect Doberman Ear Stance Without Surgery.

Dobermans are known for their sleek, muscular build and their iconic, pointy ears. But did you know that those ears don't naturally stand up on their own? In fact, many Dobermans have their ears cropped to achieve this look, which is a controversial practice. In this blog post, we'll explore ways to make your Doberman's ears stand up without cropping them.

Table of Contents :

• Understanding Doberman Ear Anatomy
• Taping Doberman Ears
• Gluing Doberman Ears
• Alternative Methods for Doberman Ears
• Caring for Your Doberman's Ears
• Frequently Asked Questions About Doberman Ear Care

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Understanding Doberman Ear Anatomy

Before diving into the methods for making your Doberman's ears stand up without cropping, it's important to understand the anatomy of their ears. Doberman ears are naturally floppy and hang down on the sides of their head. The cartilage within the ear, which is responsible for providing structure and support, needs time and assistance to strengthen.

As your Doberman grows, the cartilage may develop enough to support the ears standing up on their own. However, this doesn't always happen, which is why some owners turn to non-surgical methods to achieve the desired Doberman ear look.

Taping Doberman Ears

One of the most popular and effective ways to make Doberman ears stand up without cropping is through taping. This involves using adhesive tape to secure the ears in an upright position, allowing the cartilage to strengthen over time. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to tape your Doberman's ears:

Materials:

• Medical tape or sports tape (non-stretchy)
• Foam or plastic support inserts
• Scissors

Procedure:

1. Clean the Doberman ears: Make sure your Doberman's ears are clean and dry before applying tape. Any dirt or moisture can cause irritation and prevent the tape from sticking properly.

2. Cut the tape: Cut two pieces of tape that are long enough to wrap around your Doberman's ears from the base to the tip.

3. Apply the support inserts: Position the foam or plastic inserts inside the Doberman ear, ensuring they are snug against the inner ear cartilage.

4. Wrap the tape: Starting at the base of the Doberman ear, wrap the tape around the ear and support insert, making sure it's tight enough to hold the ear in place but not so tight that it restricts blood flow.

5. Repeat for the other Doberman ear: Follow the same steps to tape the other ear.

6. Monitor your dog: Keep a close eye on your Doberman for any signs of discomfort or irritation. If your dog seems to be in pain or constantly tries to remove the tape, it may be best to remove it and consult a professional.

Gluing Doberman Ears

Another non-surgical option to make Doberman ears stand up without cropping is the gluing method. This involves using a skin-safe adhesive to bond the ears together in an upright position. Here's how to do it:

Materials:

• Skin-safe adhesive, such as Tear Mender or Torbot Skin Bonding Cement
• Cotton swabs

Procedure:

1. Clean the Doberman ears: Just like with the taping method, start by cleaning your Doberman's ears to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure the ears are dry before proceeding.
2. Apply adhesive: Using a cotton swab, apply a thin layer of skin-safe adhesive to the inner edges of both Doberman ears, near the tips.
3. Press the Doberman ears together: Gently press your Doberman's ears together at the tips, ensuring that the glued edges make contact. Hold the ears in place for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to bond.
4. Monitor your dog: Keep an eye on your Doberman to ensure they are comfortable and not experiencing any irritation. If your dog shows signs of distress or tries to separate their ears, remove the adhesive immediately and consult a professional.

Alternative Methods for Doberman Ears

In addition to taping and gluing, there are a few other methods that you can try to help your Doberman's ears stand up without cropping:

• Massage: Gently massaging your Doberman's ears can help improve blood circulation and promote cartilage growth. To do this, simply rub the base of your dog's ears between your fingers for a few minutes each day.
• Ear-Healthy Diet: Ensuring your Doberman has a well-balanced diet with proper nutrients can help support healthy cartilage development. Look for dog food with high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and calcium, to promote strong Doberman ears.
• Patience: In some cases, a Doberman's ears may stand up on their own as they grow and mature. Be patient and allow your dog's ears to develop naturally over time.

Caring for Your Doberman's Ears

Regardless of which method you choose, it's important to properly care for your Doberman's ears throughout the process. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy Doberman ears:

• Clean Doberman ears regularly: Use a gentle ear cleaner and cotton balls to clean your Doberman's ears at least once a week. This will help prevent infections and ensure the tape or adhesive sticks properly.
• Check for irritation: Monitor your dog closely for any signs of discomfort, redness, or swelling. If you notice any of these symptoms, remove the tape or adhesive and consult your veterinarian.
• Give your Doberman ears breaks: If using the taping or gluing methods, give your Doberman's ears a break for a few days between applications to allow the skin to breathe and recover.

By following these tips and trying the non-surgical methods outlined above, you can help your Doberman achieve the iconic, upright ear stance without the need for cropping. With patience, persistence, and proper care, your Doberman's ears will stand tall and proud!

For those curious about the growth timeline of a Doberman, our comprehensive article on the growth stages of Doberman Pinschers provides a wealth of information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doberman Ear Care

How Long Do Dobermans Ears Need to Be Posted to Achieve Standing Without Cropping?

The duration for posting Doberman ears can vary widely, often depending on the individual dog's ear cartilage and the method used. Generally, owners might find themselves posting for several weeks to a few months. Consistency and gentle care during the posting process are crucial to successfully train the ears to stand without the need for cropping.

In Cases Where Ears Are Cropped, How Long Does It Take for Cropped Ears to Stand?

After a Doberman’s ears are cropped, the standing process can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. The exact duration can depend on factors like the cropping style, the dog’s age at the time of cropping, and the aftercare and posting process followed post-surgery. It's essential to follow a vet’s guidance and ensure that the ears are cared for meticulously during the healing and posting process to facilitate standing.

Can I Achieve Standing Ears Without Extensive Posting?

While some Dobermans may naturally develop standing ears without extensive posting, it's not guaranteed. The posting process helps to guide and support the ears as they develop the strength to stand independently. However, the duration and intensity of posting can depend on the dog’s age, ear condition, and individual development.

What Are the Risks and Challenges of Cropping Doberman Ears?

Cropping Doberman ears involves surgical removal of a portion of the ear and a subsequent posting process to encourage the ears to stand. Risks can include infection, poor healing, and the potential for the ears not to stand despite the procedure. Additionally, the dog experiences pain and discomfort during the recovery process, which is a significant ethical consideration for many owners.

Is There a Specific Age to Start Posting for Natural Ear Standing?

While there isn’t a strict age to start posting Doberman ears to encourage natural standing, many owners begin the process when the dog is a few months old. Starting while the dog is still young and the ear cartilage is developing can sometimes yield more effective results. However, always approach the process gently and consult with a vet to ensure safe and effective methods are used.