Guides Ear Posting & Care
8 weeks – 6 months
Doberman ear posting and ear care
Updated November 2026 · By Owego Dobermans
The short answer
After a crop, follow your vet's aftercare exactly, keep the incisions clean, and have stitches removed when the vet says. Posting then trains the ears to stand, usually re-taped every 5 to 7 days for several months. Check for redness, odor or discharge at every re-post. Natural ears just need regular cleaning and checks.
A note on cropping: cropping is a personal choice. The AVMA opposes ear cropping done only for cosmetic reasons. Owego offers natural ears as well as cropped. This page is about caring for ears either way. For the pros and cons, see Cropped vs. natural ears on our buyer's guide.
Right after the crop
- Give pain medication and any antibiotics exactly as prescribed.
- Use a cone if your puppy scratches or rubs the ears.
- Keep the incision edges clean as your vet directs.
- Stitches usually come out around 7 to 12 days after surgery; your vet will tell you when.
How posting works
Posting supports the healing ear in an upright position until the cartilage can hold it alone. Methods vary (foam backer rod, tape, posts in a "rack" or a cup), and the right one depends on your vet and crop style. Ask your breeder or vet to show you their method in person the first time.
A typical posting routine
- Remove old tape gently with an adhesive remover; never pull hair.
- Let the ears air out for a few hours, or as your vet advises.
- Clean inside the ear with a vet-approved cleaner and check the skin.
- Re-post, keeping the tape snug but not tight around the base.
- Repeat on your vet's schedule, often every 5 to 7 days, or sooner if the tape gets wet or loose.
Posting commonly continues until the ears stand reliably on their own, which can take several months and often runs past teething. Teething can make ears flop temporarily; that's normal.
Call your vet if you see
- Redness, swelling or heat
- A bad smell or discharge
- Open sores where tape touches the skin
- Head shaking, scratching or pain when the ears are touched
- Ears folding at the base after they had been standing
Natural-ear care
Natural Doberman ears fold over and can trap moisture and wax. The AKC suggests cleaning Doberman ears every few days to prevent buildup. Lift the flap, wipe the visible part with a vet-approved cleaner on cotton, and never push anything into the canal. Dry ears after swimming or baths.
Frequently asked questions
How long do Doberman ears need to be posted?
Often several months, until the ears stand reliably without support. It varies with crop length, the puppy and teething.
How often do you re-tape Doberman ears?
Usually every 5 to 7 days, or sooner if the tape gets wet, loose or dirty. Follow your vet's schedule.
Can I stop posting if one ear stands?
Ask your vet first. Ears often stand and drop again during teething, so stopping too soon can undo the progress.
