German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. One of the breed’s most distinctive features is their erect and alert ears. However, many German Shepherd owners wonder if a German Shepherd’s ears stand up on their own and what to do if they don’t. This article will cover everything you need to know about German Shepherd ears, including when they should stand up, why they might not, and how you can help.
Erect Ears: A Signature of the Breed
Erect ears are a hallmark of the German Shepherd breed. They contribute to the dog’s alert and confident expression. Beyond aesthetics, erect ears reflect the dog’s structural health and development, supported by strong cartilage and muscles.
Typically, a German Shepherd’s ears will begin to stand up naturally between 4 and 7 months of age. However, several factors can influence this timeline, and it’s not uncommon for the process to take a bit longer.
Why Some Ears Take Longer to Stand Up
While most German Shepherd puppies develop erect ears without intervention, several factors can affect the timeline or prevent it from happening altogether. Understanding these factors can help you determine the best course of action for your furry friend.
Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in ear development. Some German Shepherds may inherit traits that prevent their ears from standing up fully. Choosing puppies from breeders who prioritize structural health can minimize this risk.
Age: If your puppy is under eight months old, it might be too early to be concerned. Cartilage development continues until this age, and in some cases, even later. Patience is vital during this period. It’s normal for the ears to be down, or to have been up and gone back down during teething, as is having one ear up and the other down or any combination of the aforementioned.
Nutrition and Diet: A proper diet is essential for healthy ear development. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus, as well as vitamins like Vitamin D, are crucial for cartilage health. An inadequate diet can negatively impact ear development.
Injuries or Excessive Handling: Rough or frequent handling of the ears can weaken the cartilage, hindering their ability to stand. Avoid pulling or playing with your puppy’s ears.
Environmental Factors: Stressful environments or compromised health can delay ear development. Puppies in such conditions may take longer to develop erect ears.
How to Help a German Shepherd’s Ears Stand Up
If your German Shepherd puppy’s ears are taking their time to stand up, don’t worry. There are several things you can do to help the process.
Ensure a Balanced Diet: Provide your puppy with a high-quality diet rich in protein and essential nutrients. Consider consulting your veterinarian about calcium and collagen supplements, but never administer them without professional guidance.
Encourage Muscle Development: Chew toys can help strengthen the muscles around the ears, aiding in the process.
Consider Temporary Support: Veterinarians or experienced breeders may recommend temporarily supporting the ears. This can be achieved through taping or gluing. However, this technique should be done carefully to avoid harming the dog.
Minimize Stress: Ensure your puppy’s environment is calm and free from anxiety. Stress can affect the development of various body parts, including the ears.
Consult a Veterinarian: If the ears haven’t stood up by the time your puppy is eight months old, it’s time to consult a vet. Underlying issues like infections or nutritional deficiencies may be the cause.
Methods for Taping German Shepherd Ears
If your German Shepherd puppy’s ears need a little extra help, taping can be an effective solution. Taping provides support to the ears, encouraging them to stand correctly. Here are a few methods to consider:
The Foam Roller Method
This method involves using foam rollers and surgical tape to support the ears.
- Gather your supplies: thin white surgical tape (2″ wide 3M Micropore tape works well), women’s hair rollers (remove the plastic and use only the foam), and popsicle sticks.
- Wrap the ear around the foam roller in a tight, vertical roll.
- Use the surgical tape to secure the ear to the roller.
- Attach a popsicle stick to the top part of both ears in a horizontal position. This helps maintain the correct spacing and prevents the ears from flopping inward.
- Be prepared to re-tape the ears multiple times, as the puppy will likely try to remove the tape.
- Check the ears weekly, removing the tape to see if they stand on their own. Continue taping until the ears stand.
The Tape-Only Method
This method uses only tape to support the ears. It is a non-invasive method that doesn’t require glue.
- Gather your supplies: M3 1″ Micropore paper tape, cleaning alcohol.
- Prep the ear by cleaning it with alcohol.
- Prep the tape.
- Place the tape into the ear.
The Glue-On Method
This method involves using glue to hold the ears in the correct position.
- Gather your supplies: Tear Mender fabric glue (or Skin Bond), glue remover.
- Take hold of the other ear and with both hands press the edges together and hold for 30 seconds. They should only be glued about 2/3 ‘s of the way down.
- Use only a small amount of glue.
- Keep your puppy away from other dogs to prevent them from pulling the ears apart.
Important Considerations for Taping
- Timing: The best time to start taping is when the puppy is between 5 and 6 months old.
- Patience: It can take several weeks or months of consistent taping to achieve the desired results.
- Caution: Be gentle when taping to avoid irritating the skin or damaging the cartilage.
- Professional Guidance: Consult with your veterinarian or an experienced breeder for guidance on the best taping method for your puppy.
Erect Ears and Canine Communication
A German Shepherd with erect ears signals alertness, attention, and confidence. Conversely, dropped ears can indicate fear, submission, or relaxation.
While upright ears are part of the German Shepherd Dog breed standard, downed ears are not the end of the world. Upright ears are more handsome, tougher, and more regal and the way the German Shepherd was bred to look.
Remember to relax. If your puppy is still teething or under 5-6 months, it’s normal for the ears to be down.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your pet’s health or treatment.