I agree that cropped or naturally erect ears make a dog look more intimidating. Though personally I am attracted to dogs with naturally erect ears (Malamutes and GSDs being the two primary breeds in my life), I am also attracted to dogs who are usually cropped (Dobermans and Boxers). I personally think this comes back to the primary reason I have dogs: as a safety net/protection. Nobody messes with you if you've got an 80lb "wolf" walking next to you.