Docking of ears and tails in some dog breeds is done for different purposes. For hunting dogs, for example, a shaggy tail is a noticeable hindrance. The same applies to fighting and guard dogs, which are disturbed by pain-sensitive ears and a long tail. Boxers are guard breeds and, according to the standard, their tail and ears must be cropped.
When boxers' ears are cropped
A boxer's ears must be docked at puppyhood. The best option is a period of 7 to 13 weeks. If you cut it off earlier, when the proportions of the muzzle have not yet formed, you can be mistaken with the length and shape of the ears. After 7 weeks, the shape of the boxer's skull and muzzle is already formed, and the blood vessels are not yet as developed as in an adult dog, and the cartilage is softer. If stopping is done after 13 weeks, a noticeable scar or even cicatricial wrinkling of the ear may form, deforming its shape. It is believed that before this age the operation for the puppy is less traumatic and, moreover, it will not disrupt the schedule of mandatory vaccinations.
But, if tail docking can still be done on your own at home, ear docking, even if you are a surgeon, is best done in a specialized veterinary clinic. Deworm your puppy before surgery and do not feed him 12 hours before surgery. Try not to be particularly excited, do not bother your pet, going to the clinic.
Surgery for cropping the ears of a boxer
By itself, such an operation, in the presence of a special tool, is not very difficult. But it often happens that a dog's ears have different thickness and density, there are differences in set and turn. Therefore, it is important to find an experienced veterinarian so that he can correct the really beautiful shape of the ears. In boxers, according to the standard, the cropped ear must have a sharp shape, while it must not be too short or wide. Don't worry, the operation is painless and takes place under general anesthesia, so there won't be much stress for the puppy.
Having decided to dock, you should know that for several months the dog's ears will have to be constantly engaged, processed and glued, forming the correct set of the auricle. Prepare any medications and medications you may need in advance. Buy solcoseryl jelly, brilliant green, hydrogen peroxide, antibacterial powder, an alcohol solution of levomiticin at the pharmacy. You will also need analgin, diphenhydramine, volosherdin and dressings: sterile napkins, cotton-based adhesive plaster. Purchase a postoperative ear collar for your dog.
Immediately after surgery and for a few days afterwards, give your dog a few drops of hairline and diphenhydramine with analgin to calm it down and relieve pain. The more she sleeps these days, the better. The stitches will need to be removed on day 10, during which time the dog must wear a postoperative collar. Regular treatment of the stitches is a guarantee that they will heal quickly and there will be no adhesions.
