Learn about the unique development of German Shepherd ears from puppyhood to adulthood, common ear issues, and tips for proper ear care.
I'll never forget the day I brought home my first German Shepherd puppy, Max. As an 8-week old pup, Max had the most adorable, soft, floppy ears that seemed too big for his head. I couldn't help but wonder, would his ears always be this way? As a new German Shepherd owner, I was fascinated by how their ears develop and change over time.
The Unique Journey of German Shepherd Ear Development
One of the most distinctive features of German Shepherds is their tall, erect ears that stand alert. However, German Shepherd puppies are actually born with floppy ears that are folded over. It's not until they reach about 4-5 months old that their ears typically begin to stand up on their own as the cartilage strengthens.
In Max's case, his left ear stood up around 4.5 months old, while his right ear took a bit longer, finally standing erect at 6 months. This is completely normal, as ear development can vary. Some German Shepherd puppies may have one ear up and one down for a period of time, lovingly referred to as the "friendly" or "party" ear stage.
Interestingly, even adult German Shepherds with erect ears may sometimes display "floppy" ears in certain situations. When relaxed, sleeping, or focusing intently on something, their ears may fold back or flop down temporarily.
Factors That Can Affect Ear Development
While ear development is largely determined by genetics, there are some factors that can impact if and when a German Shepherd's ears stand erect:
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Teething: As puppies teethe between 3-6 months old, the cartilage in their ears may become softer temporarily, causing their ears to droop or flop . This is because calcium is being redirected to the growing teeth.
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Nutrition: A balanced diet with proper nutrients is important for healthy cartilage development. Some owners may supplement with chondroitin or glucosamine .
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Trauma: Rough play or injury to the ears can damage the cartilage, potentially leading to permanent floppy ears . It's important to protect those growing ears!
In my opinion, while erect ears are a hallmark of the breed standard, floppy or folded ears on a German Shepherd are still adorable and don't impact their ability to be a wonderful companion. Max's slightly longer right ear flop gives him character!
Preventing and Addressing Ear Issues
Those big, upright German Shepherd ears aren't just cute - they also promote good air flow and help prevent ear infections compared to breeds with floppy ears . However, German Shepherds can still be prone to ear issues. Some common causes include:
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Allergies: German Shepherds are prone to environmental and food allergies that can lead to ear inflammation and infection . If you notice your dog scratching at their ears frequently, it's worth checking with your vet. In Max's case, we discovered he had a sensitivity to chicken and switching his diet helped immensely.
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Moisture: Water trapped in the ear canal after baths or swimming can create an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast growth . Always dry your dog's ears thoroughly after water exposure.
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Wax Buildup: Regular cleaning with a vet-approved ear cleaner can help prevent wax and debris from accumulating in the ear canal .
If you suspect your German Shepherd has an ear infection, promptly seek veterinary care. Symptoms may include head shaking, pawing at the ears, foul odor, redness, or discharge . Your vet can determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Proper Ear Care and Maintenance
To keep those majestic German Shepherd ears healthy, a regular ear care routine is essential. Here are some tips:
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Check ears weekly for wax buildup, debris, or signs of infection like redness or odor.
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Clean ears as needed with a cotton ball and vet-approved ear cleaning solution. Never use water or insert anything deep into the ear canal.
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Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing. You can use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently wipe the inner ear flap.
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If your German Shepherd has folded or floppy ears, check and clean more frequently as they are more prone to trapping moisture and debris.
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Feed a balanced, high-quality diet and consider supplements for ear and skin health as recommended by your vet.
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Avoid harsh ear cleaning products or anything not approved by your vet. Sticking to gentle, dog-specific products is best.
As Max grew into an adult, I learned the importance of staying on top of his ear health. Regular checks and cleaning, combined with prompt vet care for any issues, has kept his ears in great shape.
The Bottom Line on German Shepherd Ears
Whether your German Shepherd has the classic erect ears or endearing floppy ones, embracing their unique development and providing proper care is key. Those big ears not only give our beloved companions their signature look - they also play a vital role in their health and wellbeing.
From the excitement of watching Max's ears perk up as a puppy to appreciating the daily care that keeps them healthy, I've developed a true fondness for German Shepherd ears over the years. With the right knowledge and care, you too can ensure your German Shepherd's ears stay in top form throughout their life.