German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. A key feature of their regal look is their signature pointy ears. But what happens when those ears don’t stand up as they should? If you’re a German Shepherd owner dealing with floppy ears, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fixing floppy ears in German Shepherds.
Why Are My German Shepherd’s Ears Floppy?
German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears. Typically, their ears begin to perk up between 4 and 5 months of age. However, several factors can cause a German Shepherd’s ears to remain floppy.
- Genetics: Some German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to have floppy ears. If a dog wasn’t bred for breed preservation, floppy ears are more likely.
- Teething: Teething can cause a German Shepherd’s ears to droop temporarily. Teething usually ends around 6 to 7 months of age, and ears should perk up afterward.
- Nutrition: Poor nutrition can affect cartilage development, leading to floppy ears.
- Trauma: Injuries to the ears, even from rough play, can damage the cartilage and prevent the ears from standing. It’s important to be gentle with a puppy’s ears, especially before 4 to 5 months of age.
- Ear Infections: Ear infections can also prevent the ears from standing properly.
When to Take Action
Most breeders and vets say that floppy ears are normal when German Shepherds are teething, which usually stops between 16 and 20 weeks. By this point, the cartilage in the ear gets hard and strong enough so the ear can stand up permanently.
If you’ve seen your puppy’s ears stand up on their own, even for a short time, they will likely stand permanently after teething. If your German Shepherd’s ears aren’t erect by the time they are 5 months old and you want them to be, speak with your vet or breeder. The ear cartilage is still soft enough between the fifth and seventh months to encourage the ear to stand up straight. The ears usually take on their adult form by the eighth month. If the ears aren’t showing any signs of getting stronger or standing by 7–8 months, most experts agree they will never stand up.
Methods to Fix Floppy Ears
If your German Shepherd’s ears are still floppy after the teething period, there are several methods you can try to help them stand.
Chew Toys
Chewing on safe puppy toys with some “give” is one of the best ways to help those ears perk up. The “chew, chew, chew” method involves giving your puppy safe and healthy chew toys to exercise the muscles supporting the ears and jaws. This can naturally strengthen the cartilage.
Taping
Taping is a common method used to encourage ears to stand. This involves taping the ears in an upright position for a period of time to help the cartilage develop properly.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Foam rollers or cardboard cylinders
- 2-inch thin surgical paper tape (never use duct tape or harsh tape)
- Popsicle sticks
Steps for Taping:
- Place the foam rollers inside your German Shepherd’s ears so that the ears are held upright.
- Wrap your dog’s ears around the foam rollers and tape them in place.
- For stabilization, attach a popsicle stick to the top of both ears.
- Check and re-tape weekly until the ears stand on their own.
Ear Cleaning
Keeping your dog’s ears clean is also essential. Use a cotton ball soaked in a canine ear cleaning solution to remove any visible dirt. Gently clean the outer ear, but don’t insert the cotton ball into the ear canal. If your dog gets ear infections often, ask your vet about products that prevent bacteria and yeast growth.
Other Methods
- Massage: Gently massaging the base of the ears can increase blood flow to the cartilage, helping them keep their shape.
- Dietary Supplements: Some nutrients, like glucosamine and chondroitin, support healthy cartilage development.
- Surgical Implants: Although it is not generally recommended, surgical implants are a solution you can discuss with your vet.
Important Considerations
- Be Patient: It can take time and consistency for the ears to stand up.
- Use the Right Materials: Always use paper tape and avoid harsh tapes like duct tape, which can damage the ears.
- Consult a Vet: If you’re concerned about your German Shepherd’s floppy ears, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Conclusion
While floppy ears don’t harm your dog, you can try different ways to help them stand. Methods like taping, offering chew toys, and proper nutrition can assist with getting the ears to stand upright. Whether your German Shepherd’s ears stand up or stay floppy, remember that they are still the same loving and loyal companion.