Ear Sets of the Miniature American Shepherd & Ear Taping
Different Ear Sets
In Miniature American Shepherds and Mini Australian Shepherds there are two types of ear sets that are within breed standard. The ear set that tends to be most preferred is called "button ears". The other acceptable ear set, but sometimes less preferred, is called "rose ears". Occasionally you may see a Mini that has an ear or 2 that are upright or "prick ears" as they are called. This may happen from time to time but is not recommended for showing or breeding dogs. Below are examples of all three ear sets.
Button Ears*Most preferred*
Within breed standard |
Rose EarsWithin breed standard
|
Prick EarNot within breed standard
PC Rylee Peterson & Remi |
Taco Taping Ears - (video below!)
If you prefer a button ear set:
In some instances, you may be able to help train your puppies' ears to fold as button ears but it is not a guarantee. There are various methods out there that we can use to train the ear cartilage. The method you choose may depend on what your breeder recommends, how large or small their ears are, and how high or low the ears sit on the puppies head. It is best to start at a young age and be consistent! Consistency may be crucial for some dogs! The most important time to keep them taped is between 4 and 6 months when they are teething. Ears tend to be especially silly while they are teething. Some puppies need longer than 6 months. Massaging the ear cartilage on a daily basis may also help while they are taped.
I have created a video showing how to do one of the various methods called "taco taping". Taco taping is one of my most used methods. Please see video below!
Here are some examples of various methods to help train ear cartilage to sit as button ears. I have tried all of these methods and it may depend on the dog's ears and your consistency.
-Taco taping (medical tape)
-Chinstrap taping (best with black Gorilla/ Duct tape)
-Moleskin glued on underside of ear (Tear Mender glue)
-Weighing tip of ear down (I use Tear Mender and powdered tungsten)
-Glueing tip of ear to cheek (TearMender glue)
Taco Taping demonstration:
In some instances, you may be able to help train your puppies' ears to fold as button ears but it is not a guarantee. There are various methods out there that we can use to train the ear cartilage. The method you choose may depend on what your breeder recommends, how large or small their ears are, and how high or low the ears sit on the puppies head. It is best to start at a young age and be consistent! Consistency may be crucial for some dogs! The most important time to keep them taped is between 4 and 6 months when they are teething. Ears tend to be especially silly while they are teething. Some puppies need longer than 6 months. Massaging the ear cartilage on a daily basis may also help while they are taped.
I have created a video showing how to do one of the various methods called "taco taping". Taco taping is one of my most used methods. Please see video below!
Here are some examples of various methods to help train ear cartilage to sit as button ears. I have tried all of these methods and it may depend on the dog's ears and your consistency.
-Taco taping (medical tape)
-Chinstrap taping (best with black Gorilla/ Duct tape)
-Moleskin glued on underside of ear (Tear Mender glue)
-Weighing tip of ear down (I use Tear Mender and powdered tungsten)
-Glueing tip of ear to cheek (TearMender glue)
Taco Taping demonstration: