When a Cute Puppy Turns Into a Social Media Storm
Simone Biles is used to standing on the world’s biggest stages, collecting gold medals, and redefining greatness. But this time, she’s not trending for her athletic brilliance. Instead, the Olympic legend and her husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, are facing intense backlash after sharing photos of their new puppy—one with visibly cropped ears.
What should have been a joyful moment quickly turned controversial. Animal rights activists, fans, and casual observers alike flooded social media with criticism, accusing the couple of supporting a painful and unnecessary cosmetic procedure. So, what exactly happened—and why are people so upset?
Let’s break it all down.
What Is Ear Cropping and Why Is It Controversial?
Understanding Ear Cropping in Dogs
Ear cropping is a surgical procedure where a dog’s ears are partially removed and reshaped to stand upright. Historically, this was done for working dogs to prevent injuries. Today, however, it’s largely considered a cosmetic choice.
Why Many Consider Ear Cropping Cruel
Animal welfare organizations argue that ear cropping:
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Causes unnecessary pain
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Has no medical benefit in most cases
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Is performed purely for appearance
In many countries, the practice is banned outright. Even in the U.S., where it remains legal in some states, public opinion has shifted sharply against it.
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens’ Puppy Announcement
A Happy Post That Sparked Outrage
The controversy erupted when Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens shared photos of their new puppy on social media. Fans quickly noticed the dog’s cropped ears, and reactions were swift.
What was meant to be a heartwarming reveal turned into a lightning rod for criticism within hours.
Did They Crop the Ears Themselves?
One key detail often overlooked: there’s no evidence that Biles or Owens personally ordered the ear cropping. Many puppies undergo the procedure before being sold by breeders. Still, critics argue that buying such a dog indirectly supports the practice.
Why Fans Felt Disappointed
The Higher Standard for Celebrities
Let’s be honest—celebrities live under a microscope. Fans often expect public figures to model ethical behavior, especially someone as admired as Simone Biles.
To many, this felt like a misstep from a role model known for strength, compassion, and advocacy.
Social Media’s Emotional Reaction
Comments ranged from disappointment to outright anger:
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“I expected better from Simone.”
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“This supports animal cruelty, whether intentional or not.”
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“Please educate yourselves.”
The emotional tone showed just how deeply people care about animal welfare.
Animal Rights Groups Weigh In
What Experts Say About Cosmetic Procedures
Organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) oppose ear cropping when it’s done solely for appearance. Vets emphasize that dogs feel pain just like humans—and cosmetic surgery isn’t harmless.
The Growing Push for Ethical Pet Ownership
In recent years, there’s been a cultural shift toward adoption, ethical breeding, and rejecting harmful practices. This backlash reflects that evolving mindset.
Simone Biles’ History as a Role Model
Why This Story Gained So Much Attention
Simone Biles isn’t just any celebrity. She’s a symbol of resilience, mental health advocacy, and empowerment. That’s exactly why this story exploded.
When someone so widely respected appears to contradict progressive values, people notice.
Human, Not Perfect
Still, it’s worth remembering: even heroes make mistakes. Fame doesn’t come with a handbook for navigating every ethical dilemma.
Jonathan Owens and the Shared Responsibility
Why Owens Is Also Facing Criticism
As a professional athlete and public figure, Jonathan Owens is equally under scrutiny. Fans argue that pet ownership decisions should be thoughtful—especially when millions are watching.
The Couple’s Silence Speaks Volumes
So far, neither Biles nor Owens has issued a detailed public response. For some fans, the silence feels dismissive. For others, it’s simply a private matter blown out of proportion.
The Internet’s Role in Amplifying Controversy
How Viral Outrage Works
Social media thrives on emotion. Add a beloved celebrity, a cute puppy, and a moral issue—and boom, you’ve got a viral storm.
Platforms like X (Twitter) and Instagram turned the story into a global debate within hours.
Is Cancel Culture at Play?
Some supporters argue that the backlash is excessive. Others say accountability isn’t cancel culture—it’s progress.
Where do you stand?
Ethical Pet Ownership in the Spotlight
Adopt, Don’t Shop—But It’s Complicated
While adoption is widely encouraged, not everyone chooses that path. The real issue here isn’t buying a dog—it’s supporting harmful practices.
What Responsible Ownership Looks Like Today
Modern pet ownership emphasizes:
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Ethical breeders
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No cosmetic procedures
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Health and welfare first
Public figures are increasingly expected to follow these standards.
Legal vs. Moral Responsibility
Just Because It’s Legal Doesn’t Mean It’s Right
Ear cropping may still be legal in some regions, but legality doesn’t equal morality. This distinction fuels much of the outrage.
Changing Laws Reflect Changing Values
As public opinion shifts, laws often follow. This controversy highlights why many are pushing for stricter regulations.
Could This Have Been a Teaching Moment?
The Power of Public Apologies
Many fans hoped Biles would address the issue, explain the situation, or acknowledge the concern. A simple statement could have reframed the conversation.
Turning Mistakes Into Awareness
Imagine if this sparked a broader discussion about ethical breeding. That’s the missed opportunity critics point to.
Supporters Push Back Against the Hate
Defending Simone Biles
Not everyone agrees with the backlash. Supporters argue:
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She didn’t crop the ears herself
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Online harassment helps no one
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Celebrities deserve grace too
The Fine Line Between Criticism and Cruelty
Calling out an issue is one thing. Attacking someone personally? That’s another story.
What This Controversy Says About Modern Fame
Every Action Is Scrutinized
In today’s digital world, even personal moments become public property. This incident proves how quickly narratives can spiral.
A Lesson for Public Figures
Whether fair or not, influence comes with responsibility. Fans expect awareness—and they’re not afraid to speak up.
Conclusion: A Small Puppy, A Big Conversation
The backlash against Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens over their puppy’s cropped ears isn’t just celebrity gossip. It’s a reflection of changing values around animal welfare, ethics, and accountability.
While the criticism may feel harsh, it highlights a growing demand for compassion—not just in words, but in actions. Whether this moment leads to reflection or reform remains to be seen. One thing’s certain: even the smallest choices can spark the biggest conversations.
FAQs
1. Did Simone Biles personally choose to crop the puppy’s ears?
There’s no confirmed evidence that she or Jonathan Owens ordered the procedure themselves. The dog may have already had cropped ears before purchase.
2. Is ear cropping illegal in the United States?
No, ear cropping is legal in some U.S. states, but it’s banned in many countries and opposed by veterinary organizations.
3. Why are fans so upset about this issue?
Many believe ear cropping is unnecessary and painful, and they expect public figures to model ethical behavior.
4. Have Simone Biles or Jonathan Owens responded publicly?
As of now, neither has released a detailed public statement addressing the controversy.
5. What’s the bigger takeaway from this situation?
The incident highlights growing awareness about animal welfare and the expectations placed on celebrities in influencing ethical choices.
