Ear-cropping is a matter of breed standard like tail docking in Rotties. Frankly, given their primary reason for existing as a breed -- protection through intimidation -- I think the cropped ears make the dog much more imposing than natural ears.

In Danes, Dobes and Boxers particularly, ears are cropped to show them in Conformation. Many of the pet-quality dogs do not get cropped. It all depends on how the Standard is written as to whether it's mandatory for showing or optional. There were 4 dogs entered in the Specialties this weekend with natural ears.

Drake would definitely not look as regal with natural ears.

Jim