Dogs with Pointy Ears - Best Dog Breeds with Pointed Ears

It’s impossible to resist a cutie with pointed ears. Not only are these dogs incredibly charming with their puppy-dog eyes and wagging tails, but they’re also excellent communicators. 

Whilst you may think pointed ears are just another part of what makes your dog adorable, they have an incredible function and help to make your dog feel safe by hearing every sound. 

Noticed your dog’s ears perk right up when they hear your voice or become excited? When a dog’s ear is open and pointed, they can hear more due to the larger surface area. This is also why wild dogs and guard dogs have evolved to have pointed ears. Clever clogs.

In this article, we’re exploring the top 7 dog breeds with pointy ears, including pics so you can appreciate them even more. Enjoy!

1. Chihuahua

The Chihuahuas pointed ears make them look alert and in charge at all times - no matter their small size. Lots of Chihuahua owners understand exactly what their furry friend’s ears are saying without the need for words. This is just one of their cute physical traits.

When the ears are slightly tilted back, this means they’re super happy. It may also be accompanied by an open mouth and a bow to initiate playtime. 

Ears apart and tipped forward is a sign of aggression and means it’s time to back off. The Chihuahua descended from a desert dog with ears that have evolved to protect their little faces from scorching temperatures. 

2. Corgi

Corgis have huge bums and pointy ears that are a little out of proportion compared to the rest of their body. However, this just makes them even more lovable and cute.

Because of their pointed ears, Corgis have an amazing sense of hearing. Bred to herd cattle and sheep, the Corgi also made an excellent family companion and protector hence their continued popularity to this day.

When they’re puppies, some Corgis' ears are bigger than their legs giving them a Dumbo-type look that is delightfully irresistible.

3. Alaskan Malamute 

The Alaskan Malamute has medium-sized ears that sit upright. Arctic species tend to have smaller-sized ears compared to other dogs to protect them from icy conditions and frostbite. Smaller ears also mean less heat loss. They have a light grey and white coat, are perfectly suited for snowy regions, and are a truly hardy breed.

Though they’re born with floppy ears, Malamute ears tend to stand erect by the time they’re six months old. After this, they take on a life of their own and become famously mobile moving up and down as well as rotating. 

Whilst it looks like they’re tuning into a radio station, Malamute ears have dozens of muscles to help them work (and effectively hunt).

Malamutes are an intelligent breed who are very active and need plenty of both physical and mental exercise.

4. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in terms of a hunting dog and family pet. They use every muscle in the ear to their advantage. Their pointy ears contain strong and flexible cartilage that allowed them to track down their prey for many years.

Their large pointy ears are a specific breed trait and give them a regal look, similar to that of their ancestor, the wolf. 

German Shepherds are also notorious for doing the cutest head tilt ever in reaction to their favourite words - taking their listening skills to the next level. Did someone say…walkies!

5. West Highland Terrier

West Highland Terriers, more commonly known as Westies, are little herding dogs that make owning a pet an absolute breeze. They’re also super clever and like to learn lots of tricks.

Their pointy white ears and button noses give them a look of absolute cuteness but don’t be fooled - these little guys know how to be scrappy and love taking the lead on big adventures.

6. Boston Terrier 

The Boston Terrier is a funny character that adds a burst of happiness into every room they enter. With their excellent temperaments, Boston Terriers make great family pets but what’s with the huge ears?

Simply put, the huge Boston Terrier ears help air to circulate. It’s often said that Boston Terriers were bred for fighting and hunting but it’s clear to see that they’re lovers, not fighters.

7. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an incredibly cute dog that has rich roots in Japanese history. Bred as hunters of small game, this Japanese breed is agile and alert at all times, often communicating to their owners through ear signals.

If they’re feeling anxious or distressed, the ears will go back as a warning sign. Like the Alaskan Malamute, Shibas communicate a lot through their ears (they look like little Doritos) and when relaxed, often look like they’re picking up a satellite signal.

If you’re lucky enough, you may catch them doing their Aeroplane Ears - a display of pure happiness where the ears lay flat on either side of the head.

Many Shiba Inu dogs have fluffy coats, which are adaptable to help regulate body heat. They also require around an hour of daily exercise in order to keep in good health. 

So there we have it. A rundown of the top 7 pointy-eared dogs. Whilst these dogs’ ancestors used their pointy ears for hunting, herding, and protecting, nowadays, we just get to appreciate them for their cuteness. They are, however, a great way of communicating and translating doggy body language.

Pointy ears don’t have one look and can instead range from bat eared to upright, rounded to hooded - all with unique genetic reasons and factors that contribute to the specific shape. Whether you’re a fan of dogs with long ears or the distinctive dog breeds with pointy ears, there’s a lot to admire.

So next time you’re admiring a dog for their adorable pointed ears, think about their ancestors and how they used their ears for survival out in the wild! It’s pretty fascinating stuff.

From the petite Teacup Dogs to the intelligent breeds listed in What Are the Smartest Dog Breeds?, Waggel has a range of breed guides which have such a diverse and complex history. Pointy ears are just one of the many characteristics that make them all so distinctive and different. Breeds like the Cockapoo and the types of Spaniel Breeds also have their unique set of characteristics explained in a fun and engaging way.

Also, don't forget to explore the Top 10 Dog Breeds in the UK and dive into the world of Poodle Cross Breeds to discover more about these furry friends.