The decision to crop ears or dock tails is made with great care by responsible breeders who prioritize the health, function, and heritage of their breeds. These procedures are deeply rooted in the breed’s working history and serve to maintain their natural instincts and abilities.
A Responsible Breeder’s Perspective
A responsible breeder considers numerous factors before deciding whether to crop ears or dock tails. These choices are not merely cosmetic but are deeply rooted in the breed’s history, working ability, and overall welfare. Breeders strive to maintain the integrity of the breed by ensuring their dogs can perform their intended tasks safely and effectively. It is a widely adopted practice to safeguard dogs from potential injuries while the goal is for them to live fulfilling lives that honor their natural instincts.
For instance, a dog bred for companionship that primarily lives in an apartment or suburban home will likely not be affected by an undocked tail or natural ears. However, for breeds historically used in working roles—such as the Doberman Pinscher—these procedures can play a vital role in the dog’s function and long-term health. A breeder’s primary focus is to place their puppies in homes that best suit the breed’s needs, prioritizing environments where the dog’s instincts, physical capabilities, and temperament will be properly nurtured. This often means placing dogs in homes where they will engage in work, sports, or other performance activities that align with their natural traits and ensure a well-balanced, fulfilling life. Therefore, it is the breeder’s responsibility to prepare each pup to excel in whatever role or purpose it may fulfill throughout its life.
The Importance of Instinct and Functionality
A well-bred dog should exhibit strong instincts that align with its original purpose. Dobermans, for example, are known for their agility, guarding ability, and working drive. Their structure, temperament, and instincts must be preserved to uphold the breed’s standard and heritage.
In the U.S., many breeders choose to dock tails and crop ears for performance, sport, or working purposes. These decisions are often necessary for the safety and success of the dog in demanding environments. In working conditions, long tails are at risk of serious injury, including splitting resulting in amputation due to impact. Similarly, floppy ears are prone to injuries, infections, and other complications that can cause significant discomfort and distress for the dog, sometimes necessitating amputation.
Matching Dogs with the Right Homes
Responsible breeders carefully place their puppies in homes that align with the breed’s needs. For Dobermans, this means ensuring that owners understand the breed’s high energy levels, exercise requirements, and instinctual behaviors. A well-matched home provides an environment where the dogs natural instincts can thrive, whether that is in a sport, working, show or companion setting.
Conversely, a dog without proper mental and physical stimulation may develop behavioral issues due to unfulfilled instincts. A Doberman not given the opportunity to engage in activities that suit its natural abilities may become frustrated, overweight, or exhibit destructive behaviors.
A Thoughtful and Considered Decision
The decision to crop ears or dock tails is not a blanket measure of responsible breeding. Instead, it is a careful, thoughtful choice made in the best interest of the dog’s health, safety, and ability to perform its intended role. Most U.S. breeders who choose these procedures do so to preserve breed traits, maintain standardization, and ensure that their dogs have meaningful, active lives in suitable homes. Since responsible breeders aim to place their puppies in the most suitable homes, the decision—made within the first few days of a puppy’s life—is based on the expectation that these dogs will go to homes that embrace and nurture their breed traits. Ideally, these homes will provide opportunities for the dogs to thrive in working, sporting, or performance environments, where their instincts and abilities can be fully realized.
It is essential to recognize that the decisions of a responsible breeder are deeply rooted in breed preservation and responsible stewardship. Understanding the reasoning behind these decisions helps promote informed discussions about dog health, welfare, and responsible breeding practices.
DOGGIT fully supports the decisions made by our responsible breeders regarding their breeding programs, trusting that they are making well-informed choices that prioritize the health, well-being, and future of their puppies.