How to Tell If a Dog’s Ears Will Stand

Do you have a new puppy and want to know if his ears will stand? Perky ears are a hallmark of many popular dog breeds, but not all dogs have them.

Read on to learn more about why some dogs’ ears stand up while others’ droop, and how you can tell if your pup’s ears may eventually stand.

Signs your Pup Could Develop Standing Ears

If you’re curious about whether your dog’s ears will stand up, there are a few signs to look out for.

• If his ears are raised more than 45 degrees away from his head, this could be a sign that they may eventually stand up. Puppies who have ears that are erect or semi-erect are also more likely to develop standing ears.
• In addition, if your pup’s ear cartilage is stiff, this is another indication that his ears may eventually stand. If you gently press on your puppy’s ear and it pops back into place, this is a good sign that his ear cartilage is stiff enough to stand.
• The shape of the ear can give you some clues. If the ear is long and narrow, it’s more likely that it will stand. If the ear is wide and flat, it’s less likely to stand. Puppies with droopy ears are also more likely to have floppy ears as adults.

When Do Puppy Ears Stand Up?

Depending on the breed, the age when a puppy’s ears stand up can vary. Some breeds have perky ears from birth, while others will take time to develop.

Dogs’ ears typically stand up between two and four weeks old. There is no way to know for sure if your puppy’s ears will stand until he is about 6 months old. If his ears have not started to stand by then, it is unlikely that they ever will.

However, this does not mean that you should give up on your furry friend. While perky ears are more common in certain breeds, there are many floppy-eared dogs that make great pets.

Dog Breeds With Ears That Stand Up

Most dogs’ ears are naturally floppy. But there are a few breeds that are known for their perky ears. If your pup’s ears don’t stand up naturally, it may not be a problem. Ears that are floppy by nature can still be healthy and functional. In some cases, a dog’s ears may stand up later in life as they mature.

There are many popular dog breeds that are known for their erect ears, including:

• German Shepherds
• Siberian Huskies
• Alaskan Malamutes
• Chihuahuas
• Corgis
• and much more

Do note that if your puppy’s ears don’t stand up, it doesn’t mean that he won’t make a great pet. There are plenty of other qualities that are more important than perky ears.

Whether or not your pup’s ears stand up, he will still need regular veterinary check-ups and lots of love.

Why Did My Pup’s Ears Start Drooping?

Did your puppy’s ears start out perky but now they’re drooping? There are a few possible explanations.

One possibility is that your pup’s ears are simply taking longer to develop. Remember that it can take a few months for your puppy’s ears to fully stand up. If he continues to develop his ear cartilage, he may eventually have standing ears.

Teething can also contribute to droopy ears. When puppies lose their baby teeth, nutrients that are needed for ear development are redirected to the teeth. This can cause a temporary delay in ear development. Once the teething process is complete, your pup’s ears should stand up.

How Do I Encourage My Dog’s Ears to Stand Up?

Some dog owners may wish to encourage their puppy’s ears to stand up. This is possible, but it can take time and patience. There are a few things you can do to encourage your pup’s ears to stand:

Add Calcium to Your Pup’s Diet

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. It can also help to encourage ear development. You can add calcium to your pup’s diet by giving him calcium supplements or feeding him foods that are rich in calcium.

Prevent Rough Play

If your puppy is rough with his ears, this can cause them to droop. Preventing him from rough housing with his ears can help to keep them standing up.

Avoid Hard Head Pats

You may be tempted to pat your puppy on the head when he’s being good. But this can actually cause his ears to droop. Avoid hard pats on the head and opt for gentle pats instead.

Provide Chew Toys

Chewing helps develop the muscles around your dog’s ears. This can help them stand up better. Providing chew toys that your pup enjoys chewing on can encourage his ears to develop.

Taping

This is a controversial method that should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Taping can help to hold your pup’s ears in the upright position.

Conclusion

Overall, it can be difficult to predict whether or not your puppy’s ears will stand up. Most puppies’ ears will remain floppy throughout their lifespan. However, there are a few things you can do to encourage your pup’s ears to stand.

If you have concerns about your puppy’s ear development, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.

While most puppies’ ears are naturally floppy, there are some breeds known for having perky ears.

If your puppy’s ears aren’t standing up, it doesn’t mean he won’t make a great pet. Instead of focusing on your pup’s ear development, focus on his other positive qualities.

With regular veterinary checkups and lots of love, your pup will be a wonderful pet regardless of whether or not his ears stand up.