German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. One of the breed’s distinctive features is their upright, pointed ears. However, not all German Shepherd puppies naturally develop erect ears. If you’re a German Shepherd owner wondering how to help your pup achieve those iconic standing ears, this guide is for you.
Understanding German Shepherd Ear Development
The process of a German Shepherd’s ears standing up is gradual and can vary from dog to dog. Typically, a German Shepherd’s ears will begin to rise between 4 and 6 months of age. This process can be influenced by genetics, teething, and overall health.
Some puppies’ ears may go up and down during this period, which is perfectly normal. Teething can sometimes temporarily affect the ears due to the calcium being diverted to teeth development.
Reasons Why a German Shepherd’s Ears Might Not Stand Up
Several factors can prevent a German Shepherd’s ears from standing up correctly:
- Genetics: Some dogs may have a genetic predisposition to softer ear cartilage, making it difficult for the ears to stand erect.
- Teething: As mentioned earlier, teething can temporarily affect ear muscles.
- Injury or Trauma: An injury to the ears can damage the cartilage or surrounding tissue.
- Poor Nutrition: Inadequate nutrition can affect cartilage development.
- Weak Ear Muscles: Just like any other muscle, the ear muscles need to be strong enough to hold the ears up.
Methods to Help German Shepherd Ears Stand Up
If your German Shepherd’s ears aren’t standing up as expected, there are several methods you can try. It is important to consult with your veterinarian first to rule out any underlying health issues.
The Taping Method
One of the most common methods for encouraging a German Shepherd’s ears to stand up is taping. This involves supporting the ears in an upright position to help them develop the necessary muscle and cartilage strength. Here’s how to do it:
- Wrap: Wrap each ear around a piece of foam or a similar soft, supportive material. This provides a firm base for the ear to mold around.
- Tape: Use surgical or breathable tape to hold the ear in a tight, vertical roll. Ensure that the tape isn’t too tight, as this can cut off circulation.
- Bridge: Use a popsicle stick or similar object to connect the two taped ears horizontally. This helps maintain symmetry.
- Re-tape: German Shepherds may try to scratch or shake off the tape, so it’s important to monitor and re-tape as needed.
- Breaks: Every week or so, remove the tape to check if the ears can stand on their own. If they do, you can discontinue taping. If not, repeat the process.
- Know When to Give Up: If, after 7–8 months, the ears still don’t stand up, it may be time to discontinue taping. Consult with your vet to rule out other potential issues.
The Click & Reward Method
This positive reinforcement technique involves using a clicker to mark the desired behavior (ears standing up) and rewarding your dog.
- Clicker Training: Use a clicker to communicate with your German Shepherd. Click when they perform an action correctly, followed by a treat. This helps them understand they’re on the right track.
- Monitor: Closely observe your dog to identify triggers that cause their ears to stand up, such as when you prepare their food or when someone enters the house.
- Click: When you notice a trigger, recreate the situation and be ready with your clicker and a toy. As soon as the ears stand up, click to signal that they’ve done something right.
- Play: Follow the click with a reward, such as a few minutes of play. This could involve fetch, tug-of-war, or any game that excites your dog.
- Repeat: Repeat this exercise for a few minutes each day. Consistent training will help your German Shepherd develop the necessary muscles and habits for their ears to stand up.
Diet and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is crucial for cartilage development and overall health. Ensure your German Shepherd is eating a high-quality diet appropriate for their age and activity level. Some owners also supplement with glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to support joint and cartilage health. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.
Training Your German Shepherd to Listen
In addition to helping your German Shepherd’s ears stand up, training them to listen is essential for a well-behaved and happy dog. German Shepherds are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable.
The Focus Method
- Use a Treat: Choose a high-value treat that your dog loves. Keep the treats fresh and exciting by rotating them occasionally.
- Hold the Treat Up: Hold the treat where your German Shepherd can see it. Keep it close to their face to grab their attention.
- Use Your Dog’s Name: Say your dog’s name once. Repeating their name can cause them to ignore you.
- Use a Verbal Command: Use a phrase like “look at me” or “focus” as soon as you have your dog’s attention. This command will be used to get their attention at any time.
- Reward: Offer the treat as soon as your dog looks at you. The reward should be immediate.
- Repeat: Repeat this several times a day, but only when you have a treat in hand. Gradually wean your dog off the treat, but stay consistent in the beginning. They should get used to being rewarded when they give you their attention.
The Timing Method
- Catch the Behavior: Watch your dog closely. Do not acknowledge them until they turn to look at you.
- Have a Reward Ready: Keep a reward in hand whenever you are training. This method is about catching your German Shepherd at the exact moment when their focus is on you.
- Use a Command When You See the Behavior: Use a verbal command to mark the behavior, which you will begin to call it later.
- Reward Right Away: Let them take the reward immediately after the verbal command. This will teach them to routinely look back to you whenever the words are said.
- Practice Being Quick: Catching when your dog is looking at you is sometimes like catching lightning in a bottle. Be quick to mark the behavior with your verbal command and reward. Do this regularly, and getting their attention should become easier over time.
The Play Method
- Use a Toy: Choose an interesting toy. Something colorful, interesting-smelling, or with a squeaker can grab your dog’s attention.
- Be Energetic: Your German Shepherd is much more likely to pay attention if you’re energetic and all over the place. Jump up and down, make some high-pitched noises, and get your dog excited.
- Run Away: Dogs like to chase. Running in the opposite direction can convince yours to go after you with enthusiasm, especially if you have the toy in hand.
- Reward for Response: Reward your dog with the toy when they catch up to you. Have some playtime and continue the upbeat energy. The playtime with the toy is the reward for wanting to be around you and focusing on where you are.
- Be Consistent: Your German Shepherd will only form a habit of paying attention to you if you are consistent in your rewards. Never forego playtime with the toy if your dog isn’t reliable enough to do so. This will often cause a step backward.
Conclusion
Helping your German Shepherd’s ears stand up requires patience, consistency, and the right techniques. While upright ears are a desirable trait for the breed, remember that a dog’s worth is not determined by their appearance. Whether your German Shepherd’s ears stand up or not, they will still be a loving, loyal, and intelligent companion.
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