When it comes to the distinctive appearance of Doberman Pinschers, their ears play a crucial role. Did you know that Dobermans are born with floppy ears that naturally stand erect? However, in order to achieve the desired look, many Doberman owners opt for a process called ear posting. This involves taping their ears to encourage them to stand upright. While it may seem like a cosmetic choice, there are practical reasons behind the practice of Doberman ear posting.
Doberman ear posting has its roots in the breed’s history and purpose. Developed in the late 19th century by a German tax collector named Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, the Doberman Pinscher was initially bred for protection and guard dog duties. Their alert and intimidating appearance was a significant part of their role. The process of ear posting helps to highlight this iconic characteristic, giving Dobermans the imposing and confident stance they are known for. Furthermore, having upright ears also enhances their hearing abilities, contributing to their overall effectiveness as working dogs.
Doberman ear posting is done to help the ears stand upright as the puppy grows. This process involves taping the ears to a firm surface to encourage them to stand. The primary purpose is to achieve the characteristic alert, upright ear position that is desirable in the Doberman breed. Ear posting should start between 7 to 9 weeks of age and continue for several months. It is important to consult a professional to ensure proper technique and avoid complications.
Why Doberman Ear Posting?
Doberman ear posting is a common practice among Doberman owners. But why is it done? What are the reasons behind this procedure? In this article, we will explore the importance and benefits of Doberman ear posting.
Appearance
One of the primary reasons for Doberman ear posting is to achieve the desired appearance for the breed. The Doberman Pinscher is known for its alert and proud stance, and erect ears play a crucial role in enhancing this characteristic. However, not all Doberman puppies naturally have erect ears from birth. Some puppies’ ears may be floppy or droopy.
By performing ear posting, the cartilage in the puppy’s ears is guided and shaped into an erect position. This helps the ears stand upright, giving the Doberman a more symmetrical and regal appearance that is characteristic of the breed.
The Importance of Appearance
Appearance is an important aspect for dog show enthusiasts and breeders. The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Doberman Pinschers specifies erect ears as a desirable trait. Therefore, ear posting is done to ensure that Dobermans meet the breed standard and are eligible to compete in dog shows. It allows breeders to ensure that their dogs have the best chance of success in the show ring.
Owners’ Preference
In addition to conforming to the breed standard, some Doberman owners simply prefer the look of a Doberman with erect ears. It is a personal choice and may be influenced by factors such as aesthetics, breed characteristics, or previous experiences with Dobermans. Ear posting provides owners with the opportunity to shape their Doberman’s ears according to their preference.
Health and Function
While appearance is a significant reason for ear posting, there are also important health and functional benefits associated with the procedure.
Some Doberman puppies have naturally floppy ears, which can restrict airflow and create a favorable environment for bacterial and yeast infections. Ear posting helps to improve airflow and prevent the accumulation of moisture, reducing the risk of infections.
In addition, erect ears allow for better sound localization, which is essential for dogs in various activities such as obedience training, agility, and search and rescue work. Dobermans with well-posted ears may have an advantage in these activities as they can better determine the direction of sounds.
Preventing Hematomas
Ear posting also helps prevent the development of ear hematomas. A hematoma is a blood-filled pocket that forms between the layers of the ear due to trauma or excessive shaking of the head. By keeping the ear upright and preventing excessive movement, ear posting can minimize the risk of hematomas.
The Ear Posting Process
The process of Doberman ear posting involves careful and precise steps to achieve the desired results. Here is an overview of the ear posting process:
- Cleaning and preparation: The ears are cleaned and sanitized to ensure a sterile environment.
- Trimming: Excess hair on the inner surface of the ears is trimmed to allow for better adhesion of the posting materials.
- Inserting posting materials: Soft materials like foam or tampons are inserted into the ear canal to provide support and maintain the shape of the ear.
- Wrapping: The ears are wrapped with adhesive tape or a special posting material to hold them in an upright position.
- Regular maintenance: The wrapping is periodically changed, and the ears are monitored for any signs of irritation or infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ear posting necessary for all Dobermans?
No, not all Dobermans require ear posting. Some puppies naturally have erect ears without the need for intervention. However, if a Doberman’s ears are floppy or not standing upright by the age of 5 to 9 months, ear posting may be recommended to help them achieve the desired appearance.
How long does the ear posting process take?
The duration of the ear posting process varies depending on the individual dog and how quickly their ears respond to the shaping. In general, the posting process can take several months. It requires patience, consistency, and regular maintenance to ensure the best results.
Can I do ear posting at home?
While it is possible to do ear posting at home, it is recommended to seek guidance from a professional, such as a veterinarian or an experienced breeder. They can provide the necessary instructions, demonstrate the proper technique, and ensure the safety and well-being of your Doberman during the process.
Key Takeaways
Why doberman ear posting?
- Doberman ear posting is a procedure done to help the ears of the Doberman Pinscher stand upright.
- It is usually done when the puppy is around 7-9 weeks old.
- Ear posting helps in shaping and strengthening the ear cartilage, which is necessary for proper ear positioning.
- The procedure involves using tape or foam supports to hold the ears in an upright position.
- Ear posting should be done consistently and regularly for several weeks to achieve the desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we’ll address some common questions about the practice of doberman ear posting. If you’re wondering why doberman ears are posted, read on to find out more about this procedure and its benefits.
1. How does ear posting help dobermans?
Ear posting is a process that involves taping or bracing a doberman’s ears to encourage them to stand upright. This procedure is typically done when the puppy’s ears start to flop down, which is a common occurrence in the breed. By posting the ears, it helps train the cartilage to develop and become strong, resulting in erect and alert ears.
Ear posting is important for dobermans because it not only enhances their appearance but also contributes to their overall health and well-being. Erect ears allow for better airflow, which helps prevent ear infections and other ear-related issues. Additionally, erect ears are an essential breed characteristic for dobermans, and ear posting helps maintain and enhance that distinctive look.
2. When should ear posting be started?
Ear posting should ideally be started when a doberman puppy is around 8 to 12 weeks old. At this age, the cartilage in their ears is still moldable and responsive to the posting process. Starting early ensures that the ears have the best chance of developing properly and standing upright.
However, every doberman is unique, and some puppies may require ear posting beyond the typical age range. It’s important to work closely with a veterinarian or an experienced breeder to determine the appropriate timing for ear posting based on the individual puppy’s ear development.
3. How long does the ear posting process last?
The duration of the ear posting process can vary depending on the individual doberman puppy and their ear development. On average, the ears are posted for around 4 to 6 months. However, some puppies may need longer or shorter posting periods, depending on how well their ears respond to the taping or bracing.
Regular monitoring and adjustment of the posting technique are necessary throughout the process. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian or a knowledgeable professional who can guide you on the proper duration for your doberman’s ear posting.
4. Can ear posting be done at home, or should it be done by a professional?
While some doberman owners may choose to learn how to post their dog’s ears at home, it is highly recommended to have ear posting done by a professional or under their guidance. Proper ear posting requires knowledge of the technique, as well as experience in assessing the progress and making necessary adjustments.
A professional can ensure that the posting is done correctly, reducing the risk of injury or discomfort to the doberman. They can also guide you on aftercare and provide support throughout the entire ear posting process.
5. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with ear posting?
Ear posting, when done correctly, is generally a safe procedure for dobermans. However, there are some potential risks and complications that owners should be aware of. These include:
– Irritation or sores from tape or bracing materials
– Infection if the ears are not kept clean and dry
– Incorrect positioning or alignment of the ears
– Inadequate support, leading to ears not standing properly
– Discomfort or stress for the doberman during the posting process
To minimize these risks, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance, use appropriate materials, and regularly monitor the condition of the ears. If any complications arise, it’s important to consult a veterinarian promptly.
Doberman Pinscher Ear Cropping: What’s it Like?
In summary, Doberman ear posting is a procedure commonly done to help shape and train the ears of Doberman Pinscher puppies. It involves using splints and tape to hold the ears in an upright position until they become sturdy enough to stand on their own.
Ear posting is important for Dobermans because their natural ear shape can be droopy or floppy, which is not desired in the breed standard. By posting the ears, the owners can help achieve the signature alert and erect ear look that is characteristic of this breed.