German Shepherds are known for their distinctive appearance, especially their pointy, upright ears. These alert ears contribute to their intelligent and regal look. However, not all German Shepherds have ears that stand up perfectly straight, leading many owners to wonder why their dog’s ears are floppy. Let’s explore the reasons behind floppy ears in German Shepherds and what it means for your furry friend.
The Breed Standard for German Shepherd Ears
The American Kennel Club (AKC) sets the standard for breed characteristics, including ear carriage. According to the AKC, German Shepherd ears should be:
- Moderately pointed
- Proportionate to the skull
- Open toward the front
- Carried erect when at attention
Ideally, the center lines of the ears should be parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground when viewed from the front. While this is the ideal, variations can occur, and floppy ears don’t necessarily mean your German Shepherd is not a purebred or has health problems.
Why Are My German Shepherd’s Ears Floppy?
There are several reasons why a German Shepherd might have floppy ears:
- Age: German Shepherd puppies are born with soft, floppy ears because the cartilage and muscles in their ears haven’t fully developed. Typically, their ears start to stand up between 6 and 10 weeks of age as their bones and muscles strengthen. If the ears haven’t stood up by the time they are 8 months old, they likely won’t.
- Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in ear shape. While most German Shepherds have upright ears, some may inherit genes that result in floppy or semi-pricked ears.
- Breeding Practices: Some breeders may focus on producing German Shepherds with large, pointy ears to meet show quality standards. However, this can sometimes result in ears that are too big to hold themselves up, leading to floppiness.
- Nutrition: Proper nutrition, especially during puppyhood, is crucial for ear development. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for strengthening the cartilage in the ears. Deficiencies in these nutrients can cause the ears to flop permanently. This is more common in rescue dogs who may have experienced neglect or poor living conditions.
- Hygiene: Poor hygiene can also contribute to floppy ears. A buildup of wax, dirt, or debris can weigh the ears down, preventing them from developing properly during puppyhood. This is also more common in dogs with a history of neglect or homelessness.
- Teething: Floppy ears are common while your German Shepherd is teething, which usually ends between 16 and 20 weeks. During teething, you might notice the ears going up naturally for a day or two, or when your dog barks, gets excited, or hears a sudden noise.
German Shepherd Mixes
If you have a German Shepherd mix, predicting whether their ears will stand up can be tricky. Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears, so if the other parent breed has floppy ears, it’s more likely that the mix will also have floppy ears.
When to Consult a Vet
If you’re concerned about your German Shepherd’s floppy ears, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies. If the ears are not erect after his fifth month, and this is the look you desire, you may want to contact your veterinarian or breeder. Between the 5th and 7th month the ear cartilage is still soft enough to encourage the ear into an upright position.
Embracing Your German Shepherd’s Unique Ears
Whether your German Shepherd has pointy ears or floppy ears, remember that their ears are just one part of what makes them special. Focus on providing them with love, care, and a healthy lifestyle, and enjoy their unique charm.