Dog ears aren't just incredibly cute—they're also truly versatile! They not only help your four-legged friend hear, but also play a key role in their expressive behavior. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about dog ears.
Dog ears – more than just a sensory organ
How well do dogs actually hear?
Dogs have exceptional hearing. They can perceive frequencies between 15,000 and 50,000 hertz – by comparison, we humans can only hear up to about 20,000 hertz. This means that dogs can hear significantly higher frequencies than we can. Even the faintest sounds from a great distance don't escape them – no wonder your dog is already at the door before you put the key in the lock.
Ear shapes in dogs – from erect ears to floppy ears
Dog ears come in many different shapes. Ear shape is often breed-specific and influences not only appearance but also communication and grooming requirements.
Typical ear shapes:
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Prick ears : e.g. in German Shepherds – erect.
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Drop ear (semi-standing) : e.g. in a Collie – the upper part of the ear folds over.
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Floppy ears : e.g. in Cocker Spaniels – hang down at the sides.
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Rose ears : e.g. in greyhounds – folded backwards.
Each shape has its own characteristics – floppy ears, for example, are more prone to inflammation because less air circulates.
What your dog’s ears reveal – expression and body language
Your dog's ears are an important part of his body language. But be careful: the meaning of ear position can never be viewed in isolation . It's important to observe the entire dog and the context .
Examples of ear positions:
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Ears pointing forward : Can indicate attention, curiosity or even offensive aggression.
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Ears laid back : Often a sign of insecurity, submission or fear.
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Ears sticking out to the sides : Can indicate relaxation, but also tiredness or confusion.
💡 Tip: Always pay attention to combinations of facial expressions, body posture, behavior, and situation . This is the only way to truly understand your dog's emotions.
How to properly care for dog ears
Regular checks are essential
Check your dog's ears regularly. Healthy ears are clean, odorless, and free of redness or discharge. Dogs with droopy ears or a lot of fur in the ear canal require more care.
Clean your ears – but do it right!
Use special ear cleaners for dogs and never cotton swabs! Cleaning should only be done when the ears are really dirty. Cleaning too often can disrupt the delicate balance in the ear.
Ear mites in dogs – detection, treatment, prevention
Ear mites are tiny parasites that nest in the ear canal, causing intense itching. Puppies and dogs with weakened immune systems are particularly commonly affected.
Typical symptoms of ear mites:
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Severe scratching of the ears
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Dark, crumbly discharge (similar to coffee grounds)
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Shaking your head
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Redness or inflammation
What helps against ear mites?
Our ear mite oil is a natural remedy. It soothes irritated skin and is especially gentle on sensitive dog skin. Ideal for support in acute cases or for care after a mite infestation.
Conclusion: Dog ears need attention
Dogs' ears are sensitive and perform a great deal – in hearing, communication, and everyday life. This makes it all the more important to check them regularly, care for them properly, and take any changes seriously. This allows problems like ear infections or ear mites to be detected and treated early.
