AVMA Policy Statement

Ear cropping and tail docking in dogs for cosmetic reasons are not medically indicated nor of benefit to the patient. These procedures cause pain and distress, and, as with all surgical procedures, are accompanied by inherent risks of anesthesia, blood loss, and infection. Therefore, veterinarians should counsel dog owners about these matters before agreeing to perform these surgeries.

The AVMA opposes ear cropping and tail docking of dogs when done solely for cosmetic purposes.

The AVMA encourages the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards.