Question about German Shepherd ears

Lektonn642
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Hi everyone,

I’ve just joined the forum, though I’ve been lurking for months as the posts are often so helpful. Anyway, I’m finally posting today to ask a question that’s been bothering me for a few days now, and I can’t seem to find an answer anywhere.

We’ve had a young GSD (3 months old today) for two weeks now. After just two days with us, both his ears were perfectly upright!

We took him to the vet four days ago and she said everything was perfect.

But for the last three days, one ear has dropped... and I’m worried we might have "broken" it on a walk. His collar was a bit too big, and when he pulled back (if he saw another dog), his ear got caught, and I'm scared it's damaged.

Our next vet appointment isn’t for another month, so I’d love some advice in the meantime.

I know he’s still got plenty of time for them to stand up properly, but the idea of it being broken is really worrying me... I’ve attached a photo ;)

Question about German Shepherd ears

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6 answers
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    • Quiz
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    Just for info, my German Shepherd’s ears finally stood up for good at 11 months old. I’d almost given up hope by then.
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    Lektonn642
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    Thanks everyone for your replies! 😁

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    Tania28
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    Yeah, nothing to worry about, they can still stand up; just make sure you leave them well alone.

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    It’s a completely normal process, and his other ear will probably drop as well. This is because ears are made of cartilage and need calcium. Your puppy is growing very fast at this age and is using up his calcium reserves for more important things than his ears—namely his bones. Within a fortnight or so, his ears should be standing up straight again.
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    In this case, I’d also suggest waiting a little while. But if I were you, I’d give the breeder you bought the dog from a call, or better still, send an email so you’ve got it in writing, and ask for their advice.
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    ProvetoJuniorConseil
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    Hi there, German Shepherds' ears tend to move around a lot until they’re about 6 months old. They’re made of cartilage, so they’re quite "soft" while your pet is still a puppy. At 3 months, the ears can change position—standing up one day and floppy the next. It’s perfectly normal, so don't worry. By around 6 months, their ears should be upright. If they aren't, it might be because the ear is too heavy, has been injured, or the dog has been poorly, which can delay them standing up. However, some adult Shepherds do have floppy ears; it can happen. You can have a chat with your vet when you see them after the 6-month mark just to make sure everything's okay.

    Floriane

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