If you’re a German Shepherd owner, you know how iconic their erect ears are. But what happens when one ear decides to take a different route and flop down? It’s a common concern, and this article will explore the reasons behind it, offering guidance and solutions to help you navigate this floppy situation.
Understanding German Shepherd Ear Development
German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears. Their ears contain cartilage that needs to develop to support their characteristic pointy shape. Typically, it takes about five to eight months for a German Shepherd puppy’s ears to stand up on their own. During this time, the ears might go up and down intermittently.
Key Factors in Ear Development:
- Age: Most German Shepherds’ ears will stand up by the time they are five to eight months old.
- Teething: Floppy ears are common while your German Shepherd is teething, which usually ends between 16 and 20 weeks.
- Genetics: Sometimes, floppy ears are simply due to the genes a puppy receives from its parents.
Common Causes of a Floppy Ear
Several factors can contribute to one or both of your German Shepherd’s ears being floppy. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in whether a German Shepherd’s ears will stand erect. If a dog is genetically predisposed to having floppy ears, there might not be much you can do to change it.
- Breeding Practices: Some breeders may inadvertently breed dogs with ears that are too big, making it difficult for the cartilage to support them.
- Inherited Traits: If one or both parents have floppy ears, there’s a higher chance that some puppies in the litter will also have floppy ears.
2. Injury and Trauma
Trauma to the ear can damage the cartilage, preventing it from standing up correctly. This is especially true for puppies, whose ears are more susceptible to injury.
- Rough Play: Puppies who play rough may have their ears nipped or tugged on, leading to cartilage damage.
- Accidental Injury: Even sleeping next to a hard object can injure a puppy’s ear if it gets wedged between the head and the object.
- Excessive Rubbing: Rubbing a puppy’s ears too hard can also break down the cartilage, causing floppy ears.
3. Health Issues
Certain health conditions can also cause a German Shepherd’s ears to droop.
- Ear Infections: Ear infections are common in German Shepherds, especially those with floppy ears.
- Hypothyroidism: This condition can also cause a dog’s ears to droop.
If a German Shepherd’s ears suddenly go floppy or there are other signs of discomfort or illness, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.
4. Weak Cartilage
The ear is made of a series of cartilages. The position of the ear flap is largely controlled by muscles that attach onto the cartilages of the ear. Weak ears can be a genetic trait.
5. Teething
The flip floppy ears have to do with teething.
What to Do if Your German Shepherd Has a Floppy Ear
If your German Shepherd has a floppy ear, here are some steps you can take:
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Rule out any underlying health issues such as ear infections or hypothyroidism.
- Provide Proper Nutrition: Ensure your puppy is getting a balanced diet to support cartilage development.
- Avoid Trauma: Protect your puppy’s ears from injury during play and be gentle when handling them.
- Taping: Taping can help support the ear and encourage it to stand upright. Between the 5th and 7th month the ear cartilage is still soft enough to encourage the ear into an upright position.
- Encourage Chewing: Giving him something to chew on helps strengthen the muscles that help his ears stand up.
Addressing Common Myths
There are several myths surrounding German Shepherd ears that need to be addressed:
- Myth #1: All German Shepherds should have erect ears. While erect ears are the breed standard, not all German Shepherds have naturally erect ears.
- Myth #2: Floppy ears indicate a health problem. Floppy ears are often just a result of genetics and don’t necessarily indicate any health issues.
- Myth #5: Only purebred German Shepherds have erect ears. Genetics and ear trauma can determine floppy vs erect.
Conclusion: Embracing Your German Shepherd’s Unique Charm
While erect ears are a hallmark of the German Shepherd breed, a floppy ear doesn’t diminish your dog’s value or affection. Whether due to genetics, injury, or other factors, a floppy ear simply adds character to your canine companion.
If you’re concerned about a floppy ear, consult with your vet to rule out any underlying health issues and explore possible solutions like taping. Ultimately, the most important thing is to provide your German Shepherd with love, care, and a safe environment, regardless of how their ears stand.