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Why are my 2-month-old German Shepherd puppy's ears still floppy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 27 days old | 5.3 lbs

my puppy is almost 2 months old and his ears have not even started to stand up. the cartilage appears very weak when touched. am i worrying too early? i see pics of german shepherd puppies with their ears standing up on even 6 weeks of age. also he has just recovered from severe anemia if that could be responsible. how do i make sure his ears stand up??

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 19th, 2018

The ears will not have developed completely before the age of approximately 18 months. Until then they will stand up and flop many times. At the age of 2 months ears of a German Shepherd dog naturally flop, ie do not stand up. Your dog is normal and his ears should start to stand up in a few months.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on November 8th, 2016

    There is likely no problem, the ears typically do not stand until between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Be patient. Feed a healthy diet, "exercise" the ears by doing things and making sounds that will cause the pup to use/move the ears.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 2nd, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! They should be up for good at 6 months. Some are already erect at 8 weeks. Sometimes during teething (between 16-20 weeks) one or both will drop a bit. I hope this helps!

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