German Shepherds are known for their striking appearance, and their erect ears are a significant part of their iconic look. Many owners wonder if there’s anything they can do to ensure their German Shepherd’s ears stand up properly. 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 defining characteristic of the German Shepherd breed. They contribute to the dog’s alert and confident demeanor. According to breed standards, erect ears are ideal. These ears are typically large and triangular. The erectness of the ears is related to the muscular and cartilage structure.
When Should a German Shepherd’s Ears Stand Up?
For most German Shepherds, the ears begin to stand up naturally between 4 and 7 months of age. However, it can sometimes take a bit longer. It’s not uncommon for a German Shepherd puppy’s ears to tilt and flop in various directions as they gain strength. Don’t panic if you see one ear up and one ear down; this is perfectly normal.
Why Do Some Ears Take Longer to Stand Up?
Several factors can influence when or if a German Shepherd’s ears will stand up. Here are some common reasons:
- Genetics: Genetics play a crucial role. 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 8 months old, it might be too early to worry. Cartilage development continues until this age and sometimes even later. You won’t really know what you have until the pup is 12 months old.
- Nutrition and Diet: An inadequate diet can negatively impact ear development. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus, as well as vitamins like Vitamin D, are essential for cartilage health.
- Injuries or Excessive Handling: Frequent or rough handling of the ears can weaken the cartilage. Avoid pulling or playing with your puppy’s ears.
- Environmental Factors: Stressful environments or compromised health can delay ear development.
How to Help a German Shepherd’s Ears Stand Up
If your puppy’s ears are taking longer to stand up, here are a few steps you can take to aid the process:
- Ensure a Balanced Diet: Provide a diet rich in high-quality proteins and essential nutrients. Consult your vet before administering calcium and collagen supplements.
- Encourage Muscle Development: Chew toys can strengthen the muscles around the ears, aiding the process. Stimulate your puppy to use their ear muscles by making interesting noises or calling their name.
- Consider Temporary Support: Vets or experienced breeders may suggest temporarily supporting the ears. Taping is one method to encourage ear cartilage to stand up.
Taping German Shepherd Ears
Taping is a common method to help German Shepherd ears stand up. Here’s how to do it:
- Use the right tape: Use thin, white surgical tape that is paper-thin and tears easily.
- Wrap the ear: Wrap each ear around foam or something similar and tape them into a tight roll in a vertical position.
- Bridge the ears: Use a popsicle stick or something similar and tape it to both ears horizontally. This helps keep the ears symmetrical.
- Re-tape as needed: Your German Shepherd will likely try to scratch and remove the tape. Make sure you keep re-taping the ears.
- Give breaks: Once a week, remove the tape to see if the ears stand up on their own. If they do, you don’t need to re-tape.
- Know when to give up: If the ears still don’t stand after a certain point, it might be time to accept that they won’t.
Other Taping Methods:
- Glue on the Ear Method: Use Tear Mender fabric glue to glue the ears together about 2/3 of the way down. Hold the edges together for 30 seconds.
- Quick Brace System: Consider using a quick brace system for posting ears.
Important Considerations for Taping:
- Don’t jump the gun and tape the dog’s ears too early or in the wrong way.
- Be careful not to wrap the tape too tight.
- Distract the puppy with food or play after taping.
- Have patience and see what happens after taping.
Other Tips and Considerations
- Minimize Stress: Ensure your puppy’s environment is calm and stress-free.
- Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule regular checkups to ensure your German Shepherd’s overall health.
- Consult a Veterinarian: If the ears haven’t stood up after 8 months, consult a vet. There might be underlying issues like infections or nutritional deficiencies.
- Posting Ears: If your Shepherd’s ears have problems coming up and have to be posted, this is a puppy with “soft ears”. It is generally considered a “flaw” and you must decide whether this is a puppy that you want to breed.
- Erect ears are more handsome, tougher, and more regal and the way the German Shepherd was bred to look.
Erect Ears and Canine Communication
German Shepherd ears play an important role in communication. Erect ears signal alertness, attention, and confidence. Dropped ears can indicate fear, submission, or relaxation.
Final Thoughts
While erect ears are the breed standard for German Shepherds, floppy ears can also be adorable. Whether erect or floppy, your German Shepherd’s ears contribute to their unique character and charm. By understanding the factors that influence ear development and taking appropriate steps, you can help ensure your German Shepherd’s ears are healthy and happy. If you have questions about the German Shepherd ear taping process, feel free to contact your German Shepherd breeder or the local GSD breed club in your area or your veterinarian.