Docking and cropping is still legal in most places.
The AKC not only condones it, they require it.
https://www.akc.org/press_center/article.cfm?article_id=3659
AKC's policy on the issue, which remains unchanged, states:
The American Kennel Club recognizes that ear cropping, tail docking, and dewclaw removal, as described in certain breed standards, are acceptable practices integral to defining and preserving breed character and/or enhancing good health. Appropriate veterinary care should be provided.
Right, it's not cosmetic. It's to enhance their health. Of course.
Because nature couldn't possibly know what a dog is supposed to look like. 
Because this doberman is wrong:
And this one is right:
Of course the inbetween stage isn't too pretty:
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