German Shepherd Puppy Ears Stages

Uncover the different stages of ear development in German Shepherd puppies, from floppy ears to upright majestic auricles. Witness the captivating tra

german shepherd puppy ears stages

stages of German Shepherd Puppy Ears

stages of German Shepherd Puppy Ears

Stage One: Newborn

The fascinating journey of a German Shepherd puppy’s ears begins during the newborn stage. At this early phase, the puppy’s ears are typically soft and flat against their head. The cartilage in their ears is still pliable, allowing them to take on different positions effortlessly.

Stage Two: Folding

As the German Shepherd puppy grows, their ears gradually start to fold over. This stage usually occurs around 4 to 6 weeks of age. The cartilage becomes stronger, causing the ears to fold in the middle, resulting in a charming and floppy appearance.

Stage Three: Raising

In the raising stage, which begins around 7 to 8 weeks, the cartilage in the puppy’s ears starts to harden. The ears gradually stand up on their own, although some puppies may still have slightly droopy ears during this stage. Consistent stimulation and proper nutrition play a vital role in ensuring the ears fully stand upright.

Stage Four: Standing

The final stage in the development of a German Shepherd puppy’s ears is the standing stage, which typically occurs between 4 to 6 months of age. By this time, the cartilage has completely hardened, and the ears stand firmly and erect. The erect ears contribute to the iconic and alert appearance of the German Shepherd, enhancing their overall breed characteristics.