German Shepherds are known for their striking appearance, and their erect ears are a big part of that. Those alert, pointed ears give them a regal and intelligent look that’s hard to miss. But what happens when a German Shepherd puppy’s ears don’t seem to want to stand up? Is it a cause for concern? Let’s dive into the world of German Shepherd ears and uncover the truth!
The Ear-Raising Journey: What to Expect
German Shepherd puppies aren’t born with their ears standing tall. In fact, they’re born with their ears down. The process of the ears rising is a gradual one, and it can vary quite a bit from pup to pup.
Typically, a German Shepherd puppy’s ears will begin to stand up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. During this time, it’s perfectly normal for their ears to go up and down, almost as if they’re having a mind of their own. You might even see one ear standing while the other flops down. This is all part of the process as the cartilage in their ears strengthens.
Teething and Ear Troubles
One thing to keep in mind is that teething can sometimes affect a puppy’s ears. When puppies are teething, usually between 4 and 5 months old, their ears might temporarily droop or lose some of their firmness. This is thought to be related to calcium levels and how they’re redistributed in the body during this time. But don’t worry, it’s usually temporary as long as the ears were standing up before 4 months.
When to Consult a Vet
In most cases, a German Shepherd puppy’s ears will stand up on their own by the time they’re around 5 months old. However, if your pup’s ears haven’t perked up by the time they’ve finished teething, it’s a good idea to chat with your vet. They can assess your puppy’s overall health and diet to rule out any underlying issues.
Nutrition is Key
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your German Shepherd puppy’s development, including the strength of their ear cartilage. Make sure you’re feeding your puppy a high-quality, large-breed puppy food that contains the right balance of protein, calcium, and phosphorus.
Important note: Do not supplement calcium. Too much calcium can actually cause more harm than good, potentially leading to problems like hip dysplasia.
What if the Ears Still Don’t Stand?
If your German Shepherd’s ears haven’t stood up by the time they’re 7-8 months old, it’s possible that they never will. While erect ears are part of the breed standard, floppy ears don’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong with your dog. They’re still the same lovable German Shepherd, just with a slightly different look.
Options for Encouraging Ears to Stand
If you’re set on helping your German Shepherd’s ears stand up, there are a few things you can try:
- Ear Taping: This involves using tape to support the ears in an upright position. You can wrap the ear around a foam roller or cardboard cylinder and secure it with surgical paper tape. Be sure to use a gentle tape that won’t damage the ears.
- Popsicle Stick Method: Another technique involves attaching a popsicle stick to the top of both ears to provide stability.
- Regular Check-ups: Check and re-tape the ears weekly until they stand on their own. If they are showing no signs of getting stronger or are not standing by 7-8 months, most experts will agree that they will never go up.
Soft Ears: A Breed Flaw?
Some German Shepherds have what’s known as “soft ears,” which means their ears have difficulty standing up on their own. This is generally considered a flaw in the breed. If you’re planning to breed your German Shepherd, it’s something to consider, as this trait can sometimes be passed on to future generations.
Embrace the Floppiness!
Even if your German Shepherd’s ears don’t stand up perfectly, it doesn’t make them any less of a wonderful companion. Many people find floppy-eared German Shepherds just as adorable, and their unique look can even add to their charm. Ultimately, whether or not a German Shepherd’s ears stand up is a cosmetic issue. What truly matters is their health, temperament, and the love they bring to your life.