here's what some breed standards say about cropping the ears: A dogs keenest sense, that of hearing, is enhanced by the cropped, erect ears and makes him an instinctive guard dog, always alert. (note this is for that type of "guard' or working dog) Some hunting breeds dogs' ears and tails were cropped to make them less available as targets for other animals that they might fight with. In dogs used for guarding property docked ears often makes the breed appear more ferocious; hanging ears are reminiscent of the naturally droopy ears of puppies, looking more cute than dangerous.
AKC (american kennel club) statement; that cropping and docking are "acceptable practices integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health"
Of course it's up to the owners to have the procedures done and it doesn't effect the other characteristics of a dog that you love. I guess here in America everyone just has to get used to seeing all those breeds that usually have tails docked and ears cropped without the procedure, before it becomes a less common practice. What breed were you referring to there in Europe Fran?