Australian Shepherds
Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up?

Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up?

Australian Shepherds are a popular breed known for their intelligence, loyalty, and energetic personalities. One of the distinctive features of this breed is their ears, which come in different shapes and sizes. Many people wonder can Australian Shepherds ears stand up or not, and the answer is not straightforward.

Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up Cover Image

Understanding Australian Shepherd’s ears is essential to determine whether they can stand up or not. The breed standard describes the ideal ear shape as moderately sized triangulars that sit high on the head and break forward.

However, some Australian Shepherds have ears that stand straight up, while others have floppy ears. The genetics behind Australian Shepherd’s ears, the development of ears in puppies, and factors influencing ear position are some of the factors that play a role in determining whether the ears will stand up or not.

Key Takeaways

  • Australian Shepherds have distinctive ears that come in different shapes and sizes.
  • The breed standard describes the ideal ear shape as moderately sized triangular ears that sit high on the head and break forward.
  • The genetics behind Australian Shepherd’s ears, the development in puppies, and factors influencing ear position are some of the factors that play a role in determining whether they will stand up or not.

Understanding Australian Shepherd’s Ears

Australian Shepherds are known for their beautiful, expressive, and unique ears. However, many people wonder if their ears can stand up or not. The answer is yes and no.

According to The Puppy Mag, Australian Shepherds typically have medium-sized triangle-shaped ears that sit up and break forward, and set to the side a little. This is officially known as side-placement or button ear. Aussies can still have erect standing ears. But only ears that break forward are considered breed standard.

Teething plays a significant role in the shape of an Australian Shepherd’s ears. Teething generally takes 3 – 4 months, after which time it will be too late to alter ear shape permanently. Alternatively, you can even tape or glue the ears temporarily, just for one show. If you choose this route, be sure to take great care, as Shepherd Dog Site suggests.

Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up keep their ears clean

It is essential to keep your Australian Shepherd’s ears clean and healthy. Regular cleaning can help prevent infections and maintain their shape. According to Paws and Learn, it is essential to clean your Aussie’s ears weekly with a gentle ear cleaner and a cotton ball. You should also check their ears for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Australian Shepherd’s ears can stand up, but only ears that break forward are considered breed standard. Teething plays a significant role in the shape of their ears, and it is essential to keep their ears clean and healthy to prevent infections and maintain their shape.

Genetics Behind Australian Shepherd’s Ears

The Australian Shepherd breed is known for its distinctive triangular-shaped ears that break forward. However, some Australian Shepherds have ears that stand straight up (called “prick ear”), while others have ears that break to the side (called “rose ear”).

The genetics behind Australian Shepherd’s ears is controlled by a single gene located at the B locus, with two variant color forms. The base color of Aussies is also controlled by this gene. The B gene is responsible for the production of melanin, which is a pigment that gives color to the dog’s coat, skin, and eyes.

The B gene has two alleles: B and b. The B allele is dominant and produces black pigment. The b allele is recessive and produces brown pigment. The combination of these two alleles determines the color of the dog’s coat and also affects the color of their eyes and nose.

The B gene also affects the shape of the dog’s ears. The dominant B allele produces dogs with triangular-shaped ears that break forward. The recessive b allele produces dogs with ears that stand straight up or break to the side.

Breeding two dogs with the recessive b allele increases the likelihood of producing puppies with prick or rose ears. However, breeding two dogs with the dominant B allele does not guarantee that their puppies will have triangular-shaped ears. The shape of the ears can also be influenced by other genes, environmental factors, and developmental stages.

The genetics behind Australian Shepherd’s ears is controlled by the B gene, which affects the production of melanin and determines the color of the dog’s coat, skin, and eyes. The B gene also affects the shape of the dog’s ears, with the dominant B allele producing triangular-shaped ears that break forward and the recessive b allele producing ears that stand straight up or break to the side.

However, breeding two dogs with the recessive b allele does not guarantee that their puppies will have prick or rose ears, as other factors can also influence the shape of the ears.

Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up floppy ears

Development of Ears in Australian Shepherd Puppies

Australian Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears that will eventually stand up on their own. The timing of when the ears stand up can vary from puppy to puppy, but typically it occurs between 8-12 weeks of age. However, some puppies may take longer for their ears to stand up.

The development of ears in Australian Shepherd puppies is influenced by genetics, environment, and teething. Some lines of Australian Shepherds may have different ear shapes than others, and the area where the puppy is purchased can also affect the ear shape.

Teething can also affect the development of ears in Australian Shepherd puppies. As teething occurs in waves of severity, it can place extra stress on the puppy’s ears, causing them to flop down again. Experts recommend starting to tape the puppy’s ears between 10-12 weeks of age, although it may be best to wait until 18-19 weeks, depending on when the puppy begins teething. This process affects the muscles at the base of the ears, often making them floppier.

According to the Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute, the breed standard describes a moderate-sized, triangular ear with a slightly rounded tip that sits high on the head. The ears may break forward or to the side (“rose” ear) when at attention. The tip of the ear should reach to the inner corner of the nearest eye, according to the ASCA standard.

In conclusion, the development of ears in Australian Shepherd puppies is a complex process that is influenced by genetics, environment, and teething. While the timing of when the ears stand up may vary, it typically occurs between 8-12 weeks of age. Taping the puppy’s ears can help encourage them to stand up, but it is important to wait until the puppy is ready.

Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up chewing helps develop muscles

Factors Influencing Ear Position

The position of an Australian Shepherd’s ears can be influenced by several factors. Here are some of the most common ones:

Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in determining the ear position of an Australian Shepherd. The breed standard calls for a triangular-shaped upright ear that breaks forward, known as “button ear.” However, some Australian Shepherds may have ears that stand straight up, called “prick ear,” while others may have ears that break to the side, known as “rose ear.” The type of ear that a dog has is largely determined by its genetic makeup.

Teething

Teething can also affect the position of an Australian Shepherd’s ears. During the teething process, the muscles in the ears can become weaker, causing the ears to droop or flop. Once the teething process is complete, the muscles in the ears may strengthen, causing the ears to stand back up.

Chewing

Chewing is another factor that can influence the position of an Australian Shepherd’s ears. As a dog chews, it exercises the muscles in its jaw, which are connected to the muscles in the ears. This can cause the ears to become more floppy or stand back up, depending on the dog’s individual anatomy.

Age

The age of an Australian Shepherd can also play a role in the position of its ears. Puppies may have floppy ears that eventually stand up as they grow older. Conversely, older dogs may experience a weakening of the muscles in their ears, causing them to droop or flop.

Injury

In rare cases, an injury can cause an Australian Shepherd’s ears to change position. Trauma to the head or ears can damage the muscles or cartilage in the ears, causing them to become permanently floppy or stand up straight.

Overall, the position of an Australian Shepherd’s ears is largely determined by genetics, but other factors such as teething, chewing, age, and injury can also play a role.

consult a vet with questions

Australian Shepherd’s Ears and Health Issues

Australian Shepherds are known for their beautiful, triangular-shaped ears that stand upright. However, not all Australian Shepherds’ ears stand up, and some may even have floppy ears. It is important to note that floppy ears do not indicate any health issues and are simply a matter of genetics.

While ear shape is not necessarily indicative of health issues, Australian Shepherds may be prone to certain health conditions. According to the Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute, some Australian Shepherds may be deaf in one ear. However, most dogs with this condition can still function normally with some difficulty orienting to the direction of a sound.

Additionally, Australian Shepherds may be prone to joint and bone issues, such as elbow dysplasia, which can cause lameness and pain. Other common health issues that Australian Shepherds may develop include dry, dull coat and excessive shedding, thin to bald coat, slow heart rate, high blood cholesterol, skin or ear infections, thickening of facial folds, infertility, lack of heat periods, fat deposits in the cornea of the eye, and dry eye.

It is important to note that while Australian Shepherds may be prone to certain health issues, not all dogs will develop these conditions. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help keep Australian Shepherds healthy and happy.

dog grooming

Methods to Make Australian Shepherd’s Ears Stand Up

Australian Shepherds are known for their beautiful triangular-shaped ears that break forward, called “button ears.” However, some Aussies may have ears that do not stand up as they should. If you’re wondering how to make your Australian Shepherd’s ears stand up, here are some methods you can try:

1. Proper Nutrition

Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in making your Australian Shepherd’s ears stand up. Ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. A lack of proper nutrition can lead to weak muscles and cartilage, which can cause the ears to flop.

2. Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for your dog’s overall health and can help strengthen the muscles that support the ears. Ensure your Australian Shepherd is getting enough exercise daily to keep their muscles toned.

3. Ear Massage

Gently massaging your dog’s ears can help improve blood circulation and strengthen the muscles that support the ears. Use your fingertips to massage the ears in a circular motion for a few minutes each day.

4. Ear Taping

Ear taping is a method used to train the ears to stand up. To do this, you will need to wrap the ears with medical tape or a special adhesive tape. The tape should be wrapped around the base of the ear and then folded over to create a crease. This process should be repeated every few days until the ears stay up on their own.

5. Professional Grooming

Regular grooming can help keep your dog’s ears clean and healthy. A professional groomer can also help trim the hair around the ears, which can help the ears stand up better. However, be careful not to trim too much hair as this can cause irritation and discomfort.

You can try several methods to make your Australian Shepherd’s ears stand up. However, it’s important to remember that not all dogs will have ears that stand up, and that’s okay too. If you’re concerned, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

Potential Risks and Considerations

When it comes to the ears of Australian Shepherds, there are a few potential risks and considerations to keep in mind. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Injury: Just like any other part of a dog’s body, the ears of an Australian Shepherd are susceptible to injury. This could include cuts, scrapes, or even more serious injuries like fractures. If you notice any signs of injury, such as bleeding or swelling, it’s important to take your dog to the vet right away.
  • Infection: Another potential risk with Australian Shepherd ears is infection. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, yeast, or even parasites. Signs of an infection may include redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor. If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
  • Genetics: While most Australian Shepherds have ears that break forward, there are some individuals that have ears that stand up. This is generally considered a fault by the AKC, but it is still possible for a purebred Australian Shepherd to have erect ears. If you are considering getting an Australian Shepherd with erect ears, it’s important to do your research and make sure you are comfortable with the potential risks and considerations.

Overall, while there are some potential risks and considerations when it comes to Australian Shepherd ears, with proper care and attention, these dogs can make wonderful pets. If you have any concerns or questions about your dog’s ears, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for guidance and advice.

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Final Thoughts on Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up

Australian Shepherds can have erect ears, but only ears that break forward are considered breed standard. According to the AKC, erect, prick, or droopy ears are considered a “fault.”

While pointy ears are technically possible in this breed, it has largely been bred out. Show dogs cannot have this sort of ears in the United States, as it goes against the AKC standard. Therefore, most breeders eliminated this trait previously.

It’s important to note that this trait is inherited by the dog, so if one parent has erect ears, then the offspring will likely inherit them too. Regardless of the wisdom of taping and gluing ears, there is no way to set a dog’s ear shape after teething has concluded, which generally occurs around six months of age, and no surgical interventions to alter ear shape for Australian Shepherd show dogs are allowed, according to Kennel Club rules.

Australian Shepherds can have erect ears, but it is not a requirement for the breed standard. Breeders have largely eliminated pointy ears from the breed, and there is no way to set a dog’s ear shape after teething has concluded.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Can Australian Shepherds Ears Stand Up

What is the correct ear set for an Australian Shepherd?

According to the breed standard, the correct ear set for an Australian Shepherd is a “moderate-sized, triangular-shaped ear, rounded at the tip, and set high on the head.” The ears should be carried erect or semi-erect and should be in proportion to the size of the head.

Do shepherds’ ears stand up naturally?

Yes, Australian Shepherd ears can stand up naturally. However, it is not uncommon for some puppies to have floppy ears, especially during the teething phase. In most cases, the ears will eventually stand up on their own, but it may take a few months.

What age do shepherds ears stand up?

Australian Shepherd ears typically start standing up anywhere from 8-12 weeks. However, for some puppies, it may take longer. It is important to note that while teething is happening, ear placement will never be set.

How can I help my Australian Shepherd’s ears stand up?

You can do a few things to help encourage your Australian Shepherd’s ears to stand up. Providing a healthy diet, regular exercise, and keeping the ears clean can help promote proper ear development. Additionally, gently massaging the base of the ears can help stimulate blood flow to the area.

Can Australian Shepherds ears stand up if they are cropped?

No, if an Australian Shepherd’s ears are cropped, they will not stand up naturally. Ear cropping is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the ear flap, which can affect the dog’s ability to naturally hold the ears upright.

What are some common ear problems for Australian Shepherds?

Australian Shepherds are prone to several ear problems, including infections, allergies, and mites. Signs of an ear problem can include scratching, rubbing, or shaking the head, discharge from the ears, and a foul odor. If you suspect your dog has an ear problem, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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