Dogs with floppy ears, like the Cocker Spaniel and Basset Hound, capture hearts with their soulful appearance. However, pet parents of floppy-eared dogs often face challenges keeping their pets’ ears clean and healthy. Long, drooping ears are adorable but also trap moisture and debris.
Every year, the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists the most registered purebred dogs. Their recent list of top 20 includes 12 dog breeds with floppy ears. Some popular dogs include the Beagle, Dachshund, Golden Retriever, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. But what makes them earn a permanent place in our hearts and homes?
As a dog mom to floppy-eared Cocker Spaniels for over thirty years, I adore how their ears frame the face. Like little velvety wings, floppy ears add to the charm and appeal of Spaniels and their canine friends.
In this article, we’ll share 15 dog breeds known for their iconic, floppy ears, showcasing their personalities, characteristics, and care requirements. By getting to know these breeds, you’ll better understand how to best care for their trademark ears.
15 Dogs with Floppy Ears
Here are 15 dogs with floppy ears you’ll want to get to know better.
1. Beagle
Beagles are curious, merry, and a part of the AKC’s Hound group. They weigh between 20 and 30 pounds and are shown in two sizes in the conformation ring – 13 inches and under and 13 to 15 inches.
The breed first appeared in the United States before the Civil War. The AKC first recognized the Beagle in 1885 with a dog named Blunder. One of the most well-known Beagles in pop culture history is Snoopy, the lovable dog created by Charles M. Schulz for the Peanuts comic.
Often called a nose on paws, Beagles are incredible hunters and trackers. Beagles are one of the floppy ear dog breeds, as their long ears catch scent particles. The dog can take in olfactory information as close to their nose as possible.
2. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a low-key canine charmer with a long body, short legs, and a friendly personality. A member of the AKC Hound group, Bassets measure up to 15 inches in height and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds.
According to the Basset Hound Club of America, the Basset first appeared in sixth-century France. The AKC recognized it in 1884. The Basset Hound has long, pendulous ears that require proper care. Of note, a Basset Hound wearing a top hat appeared with rock n’ roll singer Elvis Presley in the 1950s on the Steve Allen Show.
Their long ears are an asset to hunters who take packs of Bassets out to drive small prey, such as rabbits, from underbrush in the fields. Pack hunting is still common in France and England. Most Basset lovers take them on long walks and enjoy lots of snuggle time.
3. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are split into two types – the American Cocker Spaniel (ACS) and the English Cocker Spaniel (ECS). As members of the AKC’s Sporting Group, Cockers are the smallest breed in their group. Most males weigh between 25 and 30 pounds, while females range between 20 and 25.
In 1620, settlers introduced the first Spaniel in the Americas on the Mayflower, but the breed did not gain formal AKC registration until 1878. A merry disposition is part of the breed standard, and they are tried-and-true Velcro dogs. Cockers love to be with their humans.
Cockers are a medium-sized breed with some of the most luxurious yet often troublesome ears of all dogs. Many experts believe dogs with floppy ears, such as the Cocker Spaniel, were bred that way to enhance their sense of smell. Those interested in sharing life with a Cocker Spaniel should prepare for a lifetime of coat care, grooming, and ear maintenance.
Fun Fact: One of the most famous Cocker Spaniels is Lady from Disney’s 1955 famous movie, Lady and the Tramp.
4. Bloodhound
The AKC officially recognized the inquisitive and friendly Bloodhound in 1885. The Bloodhound made its first appearance in Europe many years before the Crusades. It is believed the Bloodhound’s ancestors developed in what is now Belgium. As their name implies, this breed is a member of the AKC’s Hound Group.
The Bloodhound’s long ears and snout make it ideal for search and rescue work. It also enjoys canine sports like agility, tracking, scent work, and lure coursing. According to the American Bloodhound Club, the breed’s skin is thin to the touch and extremely loose. Bloodhounds weigh between 90 and 110 pounds, with males being heavier than females.
Bloodhounds’ longer ears make them prone to ear infections. Like other droopy-eared dogs, longer ears help smells inch up closer to the dog’s nose. Like a baseball catcher’s mitt scoops up a ball, so do the Bloodhound’s ears with invisible scent particles. This larger-sized breed is vocal and very affectionate with their humans.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) is part of the AKC’s Toy Group and has an aristocratic background. Often depicted in 17th-century paintings with royalty, the CKCS was recognized by the AKC in 1995. The ‘Cavvie’ gets its name from King Charles I and his son, Charles II, who were lovers of the breed.
What they lack in size, they make up for in appearance and athleticism. While some pet parents play with and walk their CKCS, others engage them in agility, obedience, and rally. They are both gentle and attentive, measuring around 13 inches high and weighing between 13 and 18 pounds.
The Cavvie’s silky, floppy ears are part of the breed’s standard. Unlike other longer-eared breeds, the Cavvie can be prone to ‘glue ear,’ a condition that causes the middle ear to block up from a mucus plug. Proper care and attention are paramount to the breed’s ear health.
6. Dachshund
In German, Dachshund translates to ‘badger dog,’ as their low, long bodies were bred to dig into badger dens and burrows. The curious, spunky, and popular breed first appeared in the late 17th century, but the AKC didn’t recognize them until 1885. Their sausage-like appearance, stout bodies, and longer ears add to their charm and appeal.
The Dachshund has three coat varieties – smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. They typically weigh between 16 and 32 pounds, with miniature Dachshunds weighing much less. Good with children and generally accepting of other dogs, Dachshunds are fun, vocal, and a big dog in a compact body.
The breed’s floppy ears and distance from the ground make them prone to ear issues. As a Dachsund runs, you may notice their ears have a slight bounce to them. This is because they are set near the top of the head and hang downward.
7. Havanese
As the breed name implies, the Havanese originated in Havana, Cuba. A member of the AKC’s Toy Group, the Havanese is outgoing, funny, and smart. First recognized in 1996, they weigh between 7 and 13 pounds and are 8.5 to 11 inches tall.
Early history indicates that Italian seafarers brought Havanese dogs to Cuba as gifts to wealthy wives and daughters. Cubans brought some Havanese dogs when they left their country in the 1950s and 1960s. Their double coat is hypoallergenic, silky, and long and requires proper grooming by a skilled hand.
Some pet parents prefer to have their Havanese’s long hairs plucked out. This keeps the ear canal airing out to prevent debris buildup. Others trim the ears and care for Havanese ears by regularly cleaning them, making veterinary visits, and checking them at home.
8. Weimaraner
Dubbed the ‘gray ghost’ for their coloring and elegant appearance, the AKC first recognized the Weimaraner in 1943. This friendly, fearless, and larger-sized dog is a member of the Sporting Group. They stand between 23 and 27 inches tall and have a distinctive, silvery color to their coat. Hailing from Germany, the Weimaraner first appeared in the 19th century.
The Weimaraner Association indicates that the breed first appeared in the Americas in 1938. It is a combination of stealth, athleticism, and intelligence. Despite their large size, they like to cuddle and prefer to be in the company of their humans.
Like other floppy-eared breeds, the Weimaraner should have their ears checked and cleaned weekly if needed. When a dog’s ears are not erect, they can trap moisture and debris, making them more susceptible to ear hygiene issues.
Fun Fact: For over 40 years, artist William Wegman has photographed his beloved Weimaraners, who are a permanent part of modern pop culture.
9. Irish Setter
Take one look at the striking red coat, and you know it’s an Irish Setter. A good family dog with a hunting spirit, the Irish Setter is a part of the AKC’s Sporting Group. First recognized in 1878, the breed weighs between 60 and 70 pounds and stands between 25 and 27 inches high. For over 200 years, the Irish Setter has made a mark in the lives and hearts of their pack.
The breed was nearly eradicated in the 1940s from an eye condition called progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Fortunately, the breed experienced a resurgence in the 1970s. Though originally bred for bird hunting, they have a keen sense of smell and floppy ears used in the hunt.
Sometimes called smarter than their owners, Irish Setters require love and patience. With a dedicated, caring pet parent, they tend to do well in obedience and hunt tests. With ears set long and well back on their heads, the fur tends to be wavy or curly. The long ears make them susceptible to ear hygiene issues, so cleaning and care are paramount.
10. Black and Tan Coonhound
First accepted into the AKC in 1945, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a large, athletic hunter who gets its name from their pursuit of raccoons. Their noses are long and lean, and they have keenly expressive eyes. Their velvety ears, sensitive nose (strong sense of smell), and endearing personality make them a popular member of the AKC’s Hound group.
First appearing in medieval England in the 11th century, the Black and Tan Coonhound can be stubborn and independent. They may be a bit reserved but are generally affectionate and gentle. According to ShowSight Magazine, the Black and Tan Coonhound has hardly changed in appearance over the past 80 years.
The long, floppy ears of the Black and Tan Coonhound are prone to ear problems. Like other floppy-eared dog breeds, moisture and debris can build up. Watch for signs of ear issues, including redness, odor, or your dog scratching the ears.
11. Afghan Hound
First recognized by the AKC in 1926, the Afghan Hound is a stealthy member of the Hound Group. Weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, Afghan Hounds are tall, measuring 25 to 27 inches high. According to the Afghan Hound Club of America, the breed’s personality is aloof and dignified. She marches to the beat of her own drum and loves her humans.
Developed in the hills of Afghanistan to hunt, she is strikingly beautiful and requires the hand of a skilled groomer. Though strong-willed, she is majestic, show-worthy, and beloved by many pet parents. Afghans can take down large animals like antelopes and leopards in the field.
Like the Afghan Hound, dogs with floppy ears require inspection and cleaning. Many pet parents prefer to clean their ears during the grooming session. Ears can be tucked safely in a snood while dogs like the Afghan eat or drink to prevent debris and moisture from entering.
Fun Fact: Matell rolled out a canine companion for Barbie in 1981, an Afghan Hound named Beauty.
12. Golden Retriever
Stealing hearts for nearly 100 years, the AKC recognized the Golden Retriever in 1925. As a member of the sporting group, Golden Retrievers are consistently among the top 10 most popular dog breeds in the United States. This sturdy, muscular dog is famous for its golden coat and friendly personality.
Bred to hunt and do field work, Golden Retrievers work as guide dogs, engage in search and rescue efforts and compete in canine sports. Weighing between 55 and 75 pounds, Goldens measure between 21.5 and 24 inches tall. Affectionate with their pack and good with other dogs and children, the breed has a joyous outlook on life.
The long fur on their floppy ears means Golden Retrievers need extra ear care attention. Like other Sporting dogs who enjoy water, they can be prone to ear debris, and ear hygiene issues.
13. Shih-Tzu
Diminutive in stature. The Shih Tzu was originally bred in China. Because of her lion-like appearance, her name translates to ‘lion dog.’ Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds and standing between 9 and 10-½ inches tall, the Shih Tzu was admitted to the AKC’s Toy Group in 1969.
This historic breed dates back at least 1,000 years. During China’s Communist Revolution, the Shih Tzu nearly became extinct. Fortunately, military personnel brought Shih Tzu dogs to the United States. Though they look gorgeous and have a long, flowing coat, they are also an athletic breed that does well in agility.
Ear problems can occur if your Shih Tzu has narrow ear canals or inner ear hair. With their long, floppy ears, regularly trimming excessive hair from the canal and cleaning wax and debris can help.
14. Boxer
Named for the boxing athletes they move like, the Boxer is a smooth, graceful member of the AKC’s Working Group. First recognized by the AKC in 1904, the Boxer developed in Germany in the late 19th century. They weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, with females weighing 15 pounds less than their male counterparts. Standing between 21.5 and 25 inches tall, the Boxer is statuesque, courageous, and intelligent.
Their patient, protective nature makes the Boxer an ideal family pet. They are great with kids and take their role as guardians seriously. Often used as service dogs, guide dogs, or epilepsy-alert dogs, the Boxer bonds with the person or people in their life.
The Boxer’s coat is short and smooth, and they are known for their floppy ears. Some pet parents opt to crop their ears, but they still require care and maintenance. Close attention to the Boxer’s ears should be a regular part of ongoing care. As with other floppy-eared breeds, look for redness, unusual discharge, odor, or itch.
15. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is an all-around friendly, people-pleasing member of the AKC’s Sporting Group. Weighing between 45 and 70 pounds and standing between 21 and 25 inches, the GSP thrives on activity and endurance. Bred to work long days in the field or working, GSPs are fast, smart, and known for their power. First admitted to the AKC in 1930, the GSP likely descended from the German Bird Dog in the 17th century or earlier.
Some dog fanciers call the German Shorthaired Pointer the ‘Swiss Army knife’ of the canine world, as they tend to do it all. An all-purpose gun dog, they retrieve on land and water and have a special place on their family’s couch. The GSP coat is smooth and short, and they are medium shedders. From a personality standpoint, they require a lot of mental stimulation and are easy to train.
The GSP’s floppy ears make them prime candidates for aural issues. If your GSP excels in the field or water, ear problems can occur. Stay ahead of the game with the tips we will share in the next section.
Care Tips for Dogs with Floppy Ears
“I like to tell pet parents that ear infections can come on quickly,” says Dr. Sharon Daley, CVM, CVA, of North Carolina. “Sometimes the most proactive pet parent will still encounter ear infections.”
Dr. Daley sees patients in her clinic with ear redness and irritation. At home, the pet parent did not notice any signs. While examining the ears, primary veterinarians can see only the vertical and horizontal canals and the ear drum. They are unable to see the middle inner ear. However, she says veterinarians may catch things in the ear before outward signs.
How to Properly Clean a Dog’s Ears
Regular ear cleaning is important for any dog, especially dogs with floppy ears. Here’s how Dr. Daley cleans her own dogs’ ears:
- Saturate a cotton ball with a good cleaning solution that contains a drying agent.
- Twist the cotton ball down into the ear canal and massage the ears at the base so the ear solution gets down into the canal.
- Allow the dog to shake their head and then wipe the excess.
Dr. Daley prefers this method because dogs do not enjoy cleaners dumped into their ears. It also allows the fluid to get through the horizontal and vertical canals. She recommends using ear cleaner every week or every other week or as instructed by your veterinarian.
PetLab Co. Clean Ears Therapy supports the ear canal without harsh alcohol. The ingredients can help dry out excessive moisture in your dog’s ears. Plus, dogs over 12 weeks of age can use it.
Pro Tip: Dr. Daley uses cotton balls in the ears of dogs who swim or take frequent baths – but remove them when water time is over.
Signs of Ear Issues in Dogs
Dr. Daley advises pet parents to watch for the following signs of ear hygiene issues in their dogs:
- Shaking of the head
- Scratching at the ears
- Odor from the ears
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to make an appointment with your veterinarian.
The Charm and Appeal of Floppy-Eared Dogs
Emotional expressiveness is part of the appeal of dogs with floppy ears. The gentle, floppy ears of a Weimaraner or the flowy, silky ears of a Cocker Spaniel add a layer of puppy-like charm to their appearance.
If you want to share life with a new canine pal, consider one of the many dogs with floppy ears on our list. Purebred dogs on our list are a great start, as are dogs with floppy ears at your local shelter or rescue group. Many loving mixed-breed dogs with floppy ears are waiting for their forever home.
If you have a dog with floppy ears, we’d love to hear all about them. Share your stories and experiences in the comment boxes below. Cheers to ears today, tomorrow, and always!
