How to Tape German Shepherds Ears

Elevating Ears: A Guide on Taping German Shepherd’s Ears

If you’re a part of the vast community of German Shepherd owners, you may be well aware that one of the breed’s most distinctive features is their upright, pointed ears. However, you may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy’s ears aren’t standing up as expected. This can be a source of concern for many first-time owners. One remedy that might help is taping the puppy’s ears.

In this article, we’re going to discuss why a German Shepherd’s ears might need taping, when and how to do it, and important considerations to keep in mind. So, if you’re wondering how to tape your German Shepherd’s ears, read on!

Understanding German Shepherd Ears

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that it’s perfectly normal for a German Shepherd puppy’s ears to flop over. They’re not born with erect ears; their ears will begin to stand up on their own typically around 8 weeks to 6 months of age, sometimes even up to 7 months. Factors such as teething can affect when a puppy’s ears stand up.

When and Why to Tape

Taping is a method that can help support a German Shepherd’s ears in standing upright if they haven’t done so naturally by the age of 7-8 months. It’s crucial, however, not to rush this process. Every puppy is different, and some might simply take longer than others for their ears to stand up.

How to Tape German Shepherd’s Ears

Before taping your puppy’s ears, it’s recommended to consult with your vet or a professional breeder to ensure you’re doing it properly and not causing any discomfort or harm to your pup. If you get the go-ahead, here are the steps to tape your German Shepherd’s ears:

Materials: You’ll need some foam rollers or plastic cups (depending on the method you’re using), surgical or masking tape, and adhesive remover.
Clean and Dry: Make sure the puppy’s ears are clean and dry before starting the process.
Position: Place the foam roller or cup inside the ear, providing the needed support.
Tape: Wrap the tape around the base of the ear and the roller or cup, ensuring that it’s secure but not too tight. Make sure not to cover the ear canal.
Observe: Monitor your puppy closely. If they seem to be in any discomfort, remove the tape immediately.
Duration: The tape should generally stay on for about a week before being removed. You can then give the ears a day or two of rest before repeating the process, if necessary.

Points to Consider

Remember, your German Shepherd’s health and comfort are paramount. Don’t force the ears up if it’s causing any discomfort. Taping should be painless. If your pup is persistently bothered by the tape, remove it and consult your vet.

Also, note that genetics plays a significant role. If your puppy’s parents had ears that stood up, it’s likely that your pup’s will too, in due time. Patience is key!

In Conclusion

In the grand scheme of things, whether your German Shepherd’s ears stand up or not doesn’t affect their ability to be a fantastic and loyal companion. However, if you are keen on having those classic erect ears, taping can be a safe and effective method, when done properly. Always ensure you’re prioritizing your dog’s comfort and wellbeing, and when in doubt, seek advice from a professional. Happy taping!