Ear cropping is a debated topic in the dog community. Some see it as enhancing the breed’s look; others view it as unnecessary. Additionally, there are some opinions on this surgery being for reasons other than aesthetic. Many feel it assists with ear health of the Bully. This article covers the process, ideal age, choosing a vet, and aftercare for American Bullies. It is important to mention that over 20 breeds have a breed standard where ear cropping is performed. These breeds rarely face negativity in regards to this surgery. Bully breeds discriminatorily get more criticism and misinformation regarding ear cropping.

What is American Bully Ear Cropping?

Ear cropping is a surgery performed by a vet where part of the dog’s ear is removed to achieve a certain look. The style can vary: short, medium, or long crops. XL American Bullies typically have short or medium crops. Long crops are performed on other breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher or Great Dane, so this style of crop won’t be discussed. Some believe it enhances the breed’s appearance and meets breed standards. Others argue it’s unnecessary and injurious. Regulations vary; some countries have banned this surgery altogether. Like all the other misinformation surrounding American Bullies and Pit Bulls, it is a myth that ear cropping is performed for dog fighting purposes, historically and now. Ear cropping actually originated from practices related to show dogs and hunting dogs.

Ideal Age for Ear Cropping

According to many vets and XL Bully breeders, the best age for cropping is 8 to 12 weeks. Puppies at this age have soft cartilage, making the surgery easier and less traumatic. Younger puppies also recover faster. However, some vets will only perform the surgery when a puppy reaches both a specific age and weight. Depending on how the puppy grows, this could mean the puppy’s age may exceed the 8-to-12-week average at the time it reaches the required weight. Additionally. Some vets may require the puppy to be vaccinated for some illnesses, including rabies, before they will perform any surgery. Rabies immunizations are given at 12 to 16 weeks of age. If a rabies vaccine is required, this means your XL Bully puppy may not be able to have the surgery until 12 to 16 weeks of age. It is best to call many vets and ask these types of questions before scheduling an ear cropping surgery. 

Different Ear Crop Styles

Short Crop

This style involves cropping the ears to a shorter length, typically leaving them standing erect. The ears are usually straight and close to the head, giving the dog a sleek and alert appearance.

Show Crop

A longer crop that is often seen in show dogs. The ears are trimmed to a medium length and may have a slight curve or taper towards the tip. This style accentuates the dog’s head structure and can give a more elegant and refined look.

Battle Crop

This is one of the popular American Bully ear crop styles that is more aggressive and intimidating. The battle crop involves cropping the ears very short, almost to the base of the head. This style can give the dog a distinctive and powerful appearance.

Medium Crop

This style falls between the short and show crops in terms of length. The ears are cropped to a moderate length, standing erect but slightly longer than the short crop. This style offers a balanced and proportional look for the American Bully.

Choosing a Vet for Ear Cropping

When choosing a vet for ear cropping, it’s crucial to find one with experience in ear cropping, particularly on American Bullies. Start by asking for recommendations from other owners and breeders in your area, as they can often point you to skilled professionals. Some breeders may offer ear cropping as part of their services, but be aware that this might require them to keep your XL Bully puppy onsite longer. It’s important to select a vet who is familiar with the breed’s standard and knows how the crop should look. During your consultation, discuss all aspects of the procedure, including pain management, post-operative care, and potential risks. Remember, any surgery or use of anesthesia carries significant risks, whether it’s for ear cropping, spaying, neutering, or even routine teeth cleaning. Ensuring you have a knowledgeable vet can help mitigate these risks and ensure the best outcome for your puppy

Aftercare Tips

Follow Veterinary Instructions

Stick to the vet’s post-op care instructions, including medications, cleaning, and bandage changes.

Keep the Ears Clean and Dry

Prevent infection by keeping ears clean and dry. Use mild antiseptic as directed.

Monitor for Signs of Infection

Watch for redness, swelling, discharge, or odor. Contact the vet if these occur.

Prevent Trauma

Stop your dog from scratching or rubbing ears. Use an Elizabethan collar (ecollar) if needed.

Limit Activity

Restrict movement to avoid strain on ears. Avoid activities that could cause trauma.

Patience and Time

Healing can take weeks. Be patient as ears may droop before standing erect.

Diet and Nutrition

Provide a balanced diet and ensure access to fresh water to support healing.

If You Don’t Like the Crop, Let ‘Em Flop

Ear cropping is entirely a personal choice. Unless specified in a breeder’s contract, the decision to crop your XL Bully puppy’s ears rests solely with you. Some breeders and handlers believe that uncropped ears may make it more challenging to present a dog in the show ring, but it is neither a fault nor a penalty. Additionally, leaving the ears natural avoids the risks and aftercare associated with the cropping procedure. Natural ears can also add a unique charm and character to your dog’s appearance. Ultimately, whether you choose to crop or not, the health and well-being of your puppy should always come first.

Making an Informed Decision

Understanding ear cropping is vital for making informed decisions about this surgery. Consider the impact on the dog’s health and quality of life. Whether you support or oppose cropping, prioritize the health and happiness of your XL American Bully.

Below is an example of a medium show crop on a female XL American Bully: