Introduction
Doberman Pinschers are known for their sleek and elegant appearance, with their ears standing upright. Traditionally, many Doberman owners opted for ear cropping to achieve this look. However, ear cropping is a controversial practice and is banned in several countries. If you prefer not to crop your Doberman’s ears, there are alternative methods to encourage them to stand up naturally. In this article, we will explore various techniques and tips on how to make Doberman ears stand up without cropping.
Understanding Doberman Ears
Before we delve into the methods, it’s essential to understand the anatomy of Doberman ears. Doberman puppies are born with floppy ears, and as they grow, the cartilage in their ears starts to harden. The timing of this process varies from dog to dog, but it usually occurs between 8 and 12 weeks of age. During this period, the ears may start to stand up on their own, but some Dobermans may require assistance to achieve the desired upright position.
Ear Taping
One commonly used method to make Doberman ears stand up is ear taping. Ear taping involves using medical tape or adhesive tape to secure the ears in an upright position. This technique helps the cartilage in the ears to develop and strengthen, eventually allowing them to stand on their own.
To tape your Doberman’s ears, you will need the following materials:
Materials used:
– Medical tape or adhesive tape
– Cotton balls or foam inserts
– Scissors
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tape your Doberman’s ears:
1. Start by cleaning your Doberman’s ears to ensure they are free from dirt and debris.
2. Cut the tape into strips of appropriate length, depending on the size of your dog’s ears.
3. Fold the cotton balls or foam inserts into a shape that fits inside the ear, providing support.
4. Gently insert the cotton balls or foam inserts into the ear canal, making sure they are not too tight or uncomfortable for your dog.
5. Place the tape strips over the ears, starting from the base and wrapping them around the ear to hold it in an upright position.
6. Make sure the tape is secure but not too tight, allowing some movement for your dog’s comfort.
7. Repeat this process regularly, changing the tape and cleaning the ears as necessary.
Ear Posting
Another technique to encourage Doberman ears to stand up is ear posting. Ear posting involves using a supportive material, such as foam or pipe cleaners, to hold the ears in an upright position. This method helps the cartilage to develop and strengthen over time.
To post your Doberman’s ears, you will need the following materials:
Materials used:
– Foam inserts or pipe cleaners
– Medical tape or adhesive tape
– Scissors
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to post your Doberman’s ears:
1. Clean your Doberman’s ears thoroughly to ensure they are clean and free from any debris.
2. Cut the foam inserts or pipe cleaners into lengths that match the height of your dog’s ears.
3. Gently insert the foam inserts or pipe cleaners into the ear canal, making sure they provide support without causing discomfort.
4. Use medical tape or adhesive tape to secure the foam inserts or pipe cleaners to the outside of the ear, holding them in an upright position.
5. Make sure the tape is secure but not too tight, allowing some movement for your dog’s comfort.
6. Regularly check the ears for signs of irritation or infection, and adjust the posting as necessary.
7. Gradually reduce the support provided by the foam inserts or pipe cleaners over time, allowing the ears to stand on their own.
Patience and Consistency
It’s important to note that both ear taping and ear posting methods require patience and consistency. The cartilage in Doberman ears takes time to develop and strengthen, and it may take several weeks or even months to achieve the desired upright position. Be prepared for setbacks and adjustments along the way.
Conclusion
While ear cropping has been a traditional method to make Doberman ears stand up, it is no longer necessary or recommended. Ear taping and ear posting provide safe and humane alternatives to achieve the desired look without resorting to surgery. Remember to be patient, consistent, and attentive to your Doberman’s comfort throughout the process.
References
– American Kennel Club: www.akc.org
– Doberman Pinscher Club of America: www.dpca.org
– PetMD: www.petmd.com
