Rise in illegal dog ear cropping

Trend in removing dogs' ears grows - 7th February 2022

A secret investigation by journalists has shown that some UK dog breeders are breaking the law to follow fashions on social media. Dog breeders are cutting off or 'cropping' part of the ears of fighting dogs, such as the American Bully breed.

Dogs with cropped ears can look more dangerous and aggressive. It's illegal in the UK, but the breeders are providing fake pet passports which state the operation was done abroad. Puppies frequently cost around £1,500 more after the procedure.

Reporters followed a number of UK dog breeders who'd posted photos of dogs with cropped ears online. A breeder offered one of the journalists a puppy for £13,000, with the necessary documentation.

Vanessa Waddon, from the dog charity Hope, has been looking after dogs which have cropped ears. She's convinced that images on social media are behind the growing trend. These pictures are put up by celebrities. Their online followers want similar-looking dogs.

Dogs Trust spokesperson Paula Boyden said ear cropping could result in an infection for the animal. It can also affect a dog's behaviour and confidence. It's important to remember that dogs communicate with other dogs, and with their owners, using their ears.