So, you’re the proud parent of an adorable German Shepherd puppy? One of the breed’s most distinctive features is their erect, alert ears. But what happens when those ears decide to take a detour and flop down? Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Many German Shepherd owners face this common concern. The good news is that with a little patience and the right techniques, you can help your pup achieve those picture-perfect, upright ears.
Understanding German Shepherd Ears
Before diving into the taping process, let’s understand a few key things about German Shepherd ears. A common misconception is that German Shepherd ears are trimmed to make them stand, which is false. The ears’ ability to stand depends on the strength of the cartilage. If the cartilage is weak, the ears may droop or fold.
Typically, a German Shepherd puppy’s ears will naturally begin to stand erect between the ages of four and six months. However, some puppies may take longer, and their ears might not stand fully until they are closer to a year old. Teething can also affect the ears; wait until after your pup has finished teething before taping. If a Shepherd’s ears aren’t trying to stand by the time they are seven or eight months old, taping may not work.
Why Tape German Shepherd Ears?
Taping is a method used to provide support to the ears, encouraging the cartilage to strengthen in an upright position. It’s most effective when started early, ideally during the teething phase when the cartilage is still developing. Taping can help prevent the cartilage from hardening with a crease in it. Think of it like cardboard: once it has a bend, it will never be the same.
Methods for Taping German Shepherd Ears
Several techniques can help give your German Shepherd’s ears that extra lift they need. Here are a couple of popular methods:
Roller Method
This method involves using a foam roller to support the ear from the inside.
What you’ll need:
- Foam roller (remove the plastic)
- Thin, white surgical tape (paper-thin and tears easily)
- Scissors
- Popsicle stick (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
- Place the roller inside the ear flap, fairly deep, leaving a finger space opening above the pup’s head and the bottom of the roller inside the ear flap.
- Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a fairly tight roll, in an upright (vertical) position.
- Optional: Attach a popsicle stick to the top part of both ears in a horizontal position to provide additional support.
- Secure the roller with tape, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight.
- If desired, use a strip of tape to connect both ears, pulling them up into the proper position on top of the head as you tape.
- Leave enough tape to bring it back across the exposed sticky end of the horizontal piece of tape (between the ears) and tape it back to itself. This will help ensure that the tape will stay in place.
- Distract the puppy with food or by playing ball, etc. for about five minutes until the glue stops itching and is well set.
- The roller will fall out on its own in about a week or so if not taken out by you or your puppy.
- Continue the re-taping process until the German Shepherd puppy ears stand on their own.
Glue-On Method
This method involves gluing the ears together over the puppy’s head.
What you’ll need:
- Tear Mender fabric glue
- Paper plate or notebook paper
- Glue remover (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
- Shake the glue well.
- Put some of the glue on to a paper plate or piece of note book paper, etc.
- Using your finger, put a small amount of glue in a vertical line on the outside/back side of the ear – edge of the ear from just slightly above the base to the tip of his ear.
- Take hold of the other ear and with both hands press the edges together and hold for 30 seconds.
- The ears should only be glued about 2/3’s of the way down.
- Keep your puppy away from other dogs to prevent them from pulling the ears apart.
General Taping Tips
- Use the Right Tape: Never use duct tape or electrical tape, as they can damage your dog’s ears. Opt for thin, surgical tape that is paper-thin and tears easily.
- Don’t Tape Too Tight: Be careful not to wrap the tape too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.
- Check Regularly: Monitor the ears for any signs of irritation, swelling, or discharge. If you notice anything unusual, remove the tape and consult your veterinarian.
- Give Ears a Break: About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. Leaving the tape on for two weeks and then removing it to let the ears air out for a few days before re-taping is also an option.
- Be Patient: It can take several weeks or even months to achieve the desired results. Don’t get discouraged if the ears don’t stand up immediately.
- Wait Until Teething is Over: It is preferable to wait to tape a German Shepherd’s ears until after they have finished teething (4-6 months).
- Consider Alternatives: There are alternative methods for taping ears, such as the Quick Brace System.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you’re unsure about the taping process or have concerns about your puppy’s ears, consult your veterinarian or a professional experienced with German Shepherds. They can provide guidance and ensure you’re using the correct techniques.
Embracing Imperfection
Even with your best efforts, there’s no guarantee that your German Shepherd’s ears will stand perfectly erect. Some dogs have naturally weaker cartilage, and their ears may always have a slight droop. If the ears are not standing on their own by 7 to 8 months, they most likely will never stand on their own so end the process and enjoy your beautiful pup just how they are. Remember, a dog’s personality and health are far more important than the position of their ears. Whether they’re up, down, or somewhere in between, those ears will always be adorable!