The breed standard describes the Dobermann as a dog of medium size that is also strong and muscularly built. In order to be eligible to meet these standards, the body of the Dobermann should appear to be almost square. Dobermanns often have their ears cropped, a procedure that is thought to be done for functionality for both the traditional guard duty and effective sound localization. According to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, ears are 'normally cropped and carried erect'. Like tail docking, ear cropping is illegal in many countries and has never been legal in some Commonwealth countries. (1980). 'Animal behavior therapy: the behavioral diagnosis and treatment of dominance-motivated aggression in canines.