Responses

Iirc there are reasons some working dogs do get their ears cropped due to lessening the risk of infection since it doesn't get as moist in there to attract mites. Less distractions from itchy inner ears, more focus in work mode. People who just do it for looks with civilian dogs though? Very not cool.
Poor Doberman getting his ears cropped. Personally I think it's better to leave their ears down unless there's a medical reason for it. Otherwise very heartwarming chapter, reminds me when I got my dog from the pound.