Plus-Hex CLINICAL
Conclusions
Despite ear cropping in dogs being prohibited in many countries, demand for the procedure persists. This demand may be driven by outdated attitudes, limited awareness of the welfare consequences, inconsistent legislation and enforcement, as well as the influence of social media and celebrities who present ear-cropped dogs as desirable or intimidating.
The veterinary profession has a responsibility to advocate for animal welfare by emphasising that ear cropping for cosmetic reasons is both morally and ethically indefensible. The priority must remain the protection of the animal ' s physical and psychological health and overall welfare, which are compromised by the continuation of this practice.
Acknowledgements
The author thanks her family and friends, who encouraged her to write this article, as well as Nikki Ruedisueli at BVNA for her support. She also thanks the lecturers on her master ' s degree programme for assigning the task of writing about an animal welfare issue that interested her, which led her to write this article.
Editor ' s note
* The Bill received Royal Assent on 2 December 2025 and is now in law as the Animal Welfare( Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Act 2025.
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Volume 41( 1) • February 2026
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