German Shepherd Puppy Ears: When They Go Up, Why They Fall, and When to Worry

[Malakai The Great]

Few things cause more new-owner panic than German Shepherd ears. They go up, they go down. One up, one sideways, then both down again. Relax. Most of this is completely normal, let’s break it down.

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When Do German Shepherd Ears Stand Up?​

Most GSD puppies ears go up between: 8 weeks and 6 months

• Some go up early (even 8–10 weeks).
• Some take until 4–5 months.
• Some go up, then drop again.

All of that can be normal.

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Why Do Ears Go Up Then Fall Back Down?​

Teething. Around 3–5 months, puppies go through heavy teething. Calcium and nutrients are redirected toward tooth development. When that happens, ear cartilage can temporarily weaken.

You’ll often see:

• Both ears drop
• One ear up, one down
• Ears shifting position daily

Once teething finishes, they usually come back up on their own.

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Is It Genetic?​

Yes, heavily. Strong ear set and thick cartilage are inherited traits. If both parents had solid upright ears, odds are very good the puppy will too. If ear strength is weak in the line, it may show. Nutrition and environment matter but genetics matter more.

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Should You Tape Ears?​

In most cases: no. If the puppy is under 6 months and healthy, patience is usually the right move.

Taping too early can:

• Interfere with natural strengthening
• Stress the puppy
• Be unnecessary

If ears are still down after 6–7 months, then you can consider guidance from an experienced breeder or vet. But most of the time, they resolve naturally.

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Does Chewing Help?​

Yes, appropriate chewing can help strengthen ear muscles.

Safe options:

• Raw carrots (supervised)
• Durable chew toys
• Structured tug

Chewing activates the muscles at the base of the ear which strengthen them making standing ears more likely.

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When Should You Actually Worry?​

You should consider professional input if:

• Puppy is 7–8 months and ears never attempted to rise
• One ear appears injured
• There was trauma to the ear
• Signs of infection (head shaking, discharge, odor)

Otherwise, time is your friend.

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The Reality Check​

Ears do not determine the quality of your dog. Working ability, temperament, structure, and stability matter far more. Perfect ears are aesthetic. Solid nerves and clear mind are functional. Don’t let social media convince you ear timing is a crisis.

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Final Thought​

If your GSD puppy’s ears are currently doing something weird… It’s probably normal. Let them develop. Most shepherds figure it out on their own.