Schnauzers are beloved dog breeds known for their distinctive appearance, including their iconic bearded snouts and sturdy build. However, one of the most notable features of this breed is their unique ears, which stand up tall and proud.
Are The Stood-Up Ears Normal In A Schnauzer Breed?
Yes, the stood-up ears are indeed normal in the Schnauzer breed. This distinctive feature is one of the defining characteristics of Schnauzers and is considered a breed standard. The upright ears give Schnauzers their alert and attentive appearance, adding to their overall charm and personality.
It’s important to note that not all dogs within the Schnauzer breed will have perfectly erect ears, as some may have a slight tilt or flop. However, this does not affect their health or breed standard. So if you see a Schnauzer with stood-up ears, know that it’s completely normal and adds to their unique and adorable look.
What Are The Reasons For A Schnauzer To Have Stood Up Ears?
There are several reasons why a Schnauzer may have stood up ears. It’s important to note that each individual dog may have unique factors contributing to their ear appearance.
Schnauzers have a unique ear structure that naturally stands up, whereas other breeds may not have ears that naturally stand up. If you have concerns about your pups ears or any other aspect of their health, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and advice. Here are some of the possible reasons:
Genetics
One of the main reasons why a Schnauzer may have naturally standing ears is genetics. The breed’s genetic makeup can determine whether their ears will naturally stand up or fold over. This distinct trait can be passed down from one generation to another, resulting in Schnauzers with consistently erect ears. The genetics of a Schnauzer plays a significant role in determining whether their ears will naturally stand up or fold over.
Cropping
Another reason for a Schnauzer to have stood-up ears is cropping. Some Schnauzers undergo a cosmetic surgical procedure called ear cropping, where a portion of their ears is surgically removed to create an upright and pointed appearance. This practice has been done for various reasons, including breed standards or personal preferences of the owners.
Chronic ear infections can also be a factor in why a Schnauzer’s ears stand up. However, it is essential to note that ear cropping is considered controversial in many countries and is prohibited in some places due to ethical concerns. Please note that ear cropping should only be performed by qualified professionals if deemed necessary and legal in your region.
Training
Training can also play a role in achieving stood-up ears for a Schnauzer. While it may not be possible to permanently alter the natural shape of their ears through training alone, owners can use techniques like ear taping or bracing to encourage the ears to stand up temporarily.
These methods involve using special materials and gentle pressure to encourage proper ear positioning. However, it is crucial to seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or veterinarian before attempting any training techniques on your own. Remember that the welfare and comfort of your Schnauzer should always be the top priority.
Age
Lastly, the age of the Schnauzer can also play a role in determining whether their ears will stand up. Puppies are typically born with floppy ears, and it is common for them to start standing up at around 3-4 months of age. This is because as the puppies grow, the cartilage in their ears becomes stronger and more rigid, causing them to stand up naturally. At 9 weeks of age, it is uncertain whether the ears will be up or down or at what point they may stand on their own.
However, it is important to note that not all Schnauzers’ ears will stand up on their own. Some may have a genetic predisposition for folded or floppy ears, which may remain that way even as they mature.
How To Make A Mini Schnauzer Dog Ears Stand-Up
A Schnauzer is a type of dog with a square-shaped body and short legs. Their body is the same width as their height. They have a long, narrow muzzle and small, triangular-shaped ears that come to an end and are pointed backward. To make your Schnauzer ears stand up, you need to have at least one inch of hair in thickness or two inches of hair in length.
- Put on safety glasses and grab your dog’s ear in the palm of your dominant hand.
- You will twist your dog’s ear while simultaneously pulling it in an upward direction.
Pull it up until you hear a creaking sound, and you feel a pop, at which point your Schnauzer ears should be standing up. Be careful not to pull the dog’s ear too far or too hard because it may hurt your pet dog. Use this technique only if the dog’s fur has sufficient length and thickness.
Precious Dogs with Pointy Ears
If you’re a dog lover, then you definitely need to see these precious dogs with pointy ears. From German Shepherds to Doberman Pinschers, these breeds are popular for their distinct and adorable pointy ears. Not only do they add to their overall charm and cuteness, but pointy ears also serve a purpose for these dogs.
They help them hear better and can even make them look more alert and attentive. So, if you’re in need of some canine cuteness in your life, be sure to check out these precious dogs with pointy ears – they’re guaranteed to melt your heart.
- German Shepherd: Known for their intelligence and loyalty, German Shepherds possess striking pointy ears that add to their majestic appearance.
- Doberman Pinscher: With sleek bodies and alert expressions, Dobermans’ pointy ears make them look both elegant and intimidating.
- Australian Cattle Dog: These energetic and agile dogs have distinctive pointy ears that match their hardworking nature.
- Belgian Malinois: Highly versatile and known for their sharp instincts, Belgian Malinois sport erect pointy ears that contribute to their focused expression.
- Siberian Husky: With their striking blue eyes and fluffy coats, Siberian Huskies also sport pointy ears that give them a regal and wolf-like appearance.
- Shetland Sheepdog: Don’t let their small size fool you, Shelties are packed with intelligence and agility. Their adorable pointy ears not only add to their charm but also enhance their attentive nature.
- Jack Russell Terrier: These spirited little dogs are full of energy and have a playful personality. Their perky pointy ears are always alert, ready to catch every sound and movement around them.
Does Your Dog Have A Floppy Ear?
Many pet owners notice their dogs’ ears are floppy. They do not want to stand up and shake them out. Sometimes, it helps to bend the ear forward and then shake it so the excess skin will fall off, or use a rubber band to gently remove any excess skin from the ear with your fingers.
Some people have tried using ointment, makeup remover, soap bubbles, water, or hydrogen peroxide. None of these work and can cause problems. If your dog’s ear is working correctly, it is a sign that they are healthy. Droopy ears are usually a genetic condition; however, they are often caused by injury to the ear or an ear infection. The infected ear will not stand up straight due to pain and discomfort.
Schnauzer Ears Stand Up – What To Do?
If you’d like to make your Schnauzer’s ears stand up, there are a few steps you need to follow. First, make sure the dog’s fur has at least one inch of thickness or two inches of length. This will ensure that you can safely twist and pull your dog’s ear without hurting them. Next, put on safety glasses and grab the dog’s ear in the center.
Gently pull and twist the ear until you feel a popping sound and the ear stands up. Keep repeating this step until all the dog’s ears are standing.
Once you have successfully made your Schnauzer’s ears stand up, it is important to be diligent about maintaining them. Regular trimming of the ears is necessary in order to prevent matting and keep them looking nice. Typically, after the teething process or teething period is complete, the ears will return to their upright position at approximately six months.
Additionally, check your Schnauzer’s ears every few weeks for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to take your dog to the vet right away. Here are some tips below:
1.Leave The Ears To Set Up Naturally
Yes, we think this should be your first step. You want the natural look on your puppy, right? Stood-up ears are natural, too, believe it or not. At the time of their teething, some of the schnauzer puppies may start erecting their ears. You should already know about this as we have already mentioned earlier.
In some of the cases, you will see that the ears are coming down naturally. But if you see the ears are not going down for quite a while, chances are- they won’t come down again. They will stay as they are. You can leave the ears stood up as they are not harmful to your puppy. Plus, you will have cropped ears without giving your puppy the pain of cropping.
2.Use Puppy Ear Glue
It is one of the most used methods to keep schnauzers’ ears laid down. It is not that hard and pretty much effective at the same time. The obvious reasons for people’s liking. At first, you have to clean the ears of your puppy correctly. Give the ears some time to dry on their own.
After cleaning the ears, pick a trusted brand’s puppy ear glue. Put some glue inside the ear where you intend to glue the ear’s tip. Apply some glue at the ear’s tip, too. At this stage, gently bend the erected ear c
lose to its middle point. Attach the tip of the ear with the inside point where you have already applied glue.
Now, do the same for the other ear. You should leave the ears and glue to naturally wear off. But don’t forget to keep checking the ears and adjust them if necessary.
3.Tape The Ears
Another effective measure you can take for your puppy to keep his ears laid down is to follow the taping method. This method is also a pretty simple one. Firstly, observe the ears of your puppy and determine what size of tape you are going to need. Get your desired size tape. It can be 3 to 4 inches long. If you prefer a longer size than this, it’s okay too.
At this stage, you are going to need help from another person. Well, you can do this on your own too, but it will be better with the help of another person. Tell him to hold your dog still and the ears in a position where they look great. Lastly, tape both ears with a single tape. You can use two tapes too, but we prefer only one.
You may need to tape your puppy 2 or 3 times to keep the ears laid down. Around 4 months of age, puppies start losing their teeth. At this time, the ears may become unstable, too. You may need to tape your puppy this time to keep the ears stable.
However, you should tape your puppy only for 2-3 days and then observe the changes. If you think he needs more, tape your puppy again.
4.Rub The Ears
Rubbing the ears of a Schnauzer can help encourage them to stand up. Gently massage the base of their ears in a circular motion using your fingertips. This can help stimulate blood flow to the area and strengthen the muscles that support the ears. It is important to be patient, as it may take some time for the ears to fully stand up. If you have concerns about your Schnauzer’s ears, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian for guidance and support.
5.Consult With Your Vet Or A Local Dog Breeder
If you have a Schnauzer whose ears are not standing up as they should, it is recommended to consult with your vet or a local dog breeder for guidance. They can assess your Schnauzer’s overall health and provide expert advice on what steps you can take to encourage proper ear development.
It is important to remember that every dog is unique, and some Schnauzers may naturally have ears that stand up later than others. However, consulting with a professional can help ensure that no underlying health issues are causing the delay and provide you with the best course of action to promote healthy ear development for your beloved Schnauzer.
Conclusion
The ears of a Schnauzer can stand up for a variety of reasons, including genetics, grooming techniques, and injuries. While some owners may prefer the traditional floppy ear look, it is important to understand that a standing ear is a natural and healthy trait for this breed.
Proper care and attention should be given to a Schnauzer’s ears to ensure their overall well-being. If you have any concerns about your Schnauzer’s ears, it is always best to consult with a professional veterinarian for guidance. With proper care and understanding, your Schnauzer’s unique ear shape will only add to their charm and individuality.
FAQ
Do Schnauzers Ears Stick Up?
Yes, schnauzers have ears that naturally stick up. Their distinctive pointy ears give them an alert and attentive appearance. This unique feature adds to their charm and distinguishes them from other dog breeds. Whether cropped or left natural, schnauzer ears are known to stand tall and conquer the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
Do All Schnauzers Have Floppy Ears?
No, not all schnauzers have floppy ears. In fact, the standard schnauzer breed is known for its erect ears that stand straight up. On the other hand, the miniature and giant schnauzer breeds may have naturally floppy ears that hang down.
Why Does My Schnauzer Have Pointy Ears?
The pointy ears of your schnauzer are a characteristic of the breed. Schnauzers are known for their distinctive, sharp-pointed ears that give them a unique and alert appearance. This ear shape is a result of genetics and is an inherent trait in schnauzers. It adds to their charm and helps them stand out among other dog breeds.
At What Age Will My Puppies Ears Stand Up?
Typically, a schnauzer puppy’s ears will start to stand up between the ages of 10 to 12 weeks. However, it’s important to keep in mind that every puppy is different and there can be some variation in when their ears fully erect. Some puppies’ ears may take a bit longer to stand up, while others may have ears that stand up earlier.
Can You Train A Dog’s Ears To Stand Up?
No, you cannot train a dog’s ears to stand up. The shape of a dog’s ears is determined by genetics and cannot be changed through training or any other means. While some breeds have naturally erect ears, others have floppy or folded ears.
