10 Dog Breeds with the Most Distinctive Ears

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Corgi on a beautiful day outdoor
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Ears are often one of the most expressive and unique features in a dog’s appearance, with some breeds taking ear distinctions to a whole new level. Whether they’re long and droopy, sharp and perky, or shaped like butterfly wings, a dog’s ears can reveal much about its character and heritage. And so, in this exploration of 10 dog breeds with the most distinctive ears, we take a closer look at how these breeds’ ears not only stand out visually but also serve functional roles:

Basset Hound

Basset Hound on a slight jog
AlbanyColley/PixaBay

With ears that almost touch the ground, the Basset Hound’s droopy, oversized ears are not just for show, they are a functional tool. These long, low-hanging ears help funnel scents toward their nose, aiding their extraordinary sense of smell. The way their ears drag across the ground stirs up scent particles, making it easier for them to track trails. No doubt these dogs were bred for their scenting abilities, and their floppy ears play an indispensable role in this work. It is astonishing to note that no other breed carries such long, low-slung ears, giving Bassets a truly distinctive look and purpose.

French Bulldog

French Bulldog in the woods
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The French Bulldog’s bat-like ears are what sets them apart from the bunch. These erect, oversized ears are a key feature of their playful, quirky appearance, contributing to their charm and expressive faces. Unlike many dogs with droopy ears, Frenchies have sharp, upright ears that give them a constant look of alertness. This trait not only makes them adorable but also accentuates their unique personality. These ears don’t serve much beyond aesthetics, but they certainly make the French Bulldog a memorable breed.

Corgi

Corgi with a smirk
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Corgis, especially the Pembroke Welsh variety, are recognized for their large, pointed ears that seem almost too big for their small, stout bodies. Their ears, which are constantly perked and alert, match their inquisitive, lively nature, while also lending them a fox-like appearance. These upright ears also help them stay alert and aware of their surroundings, as Corgis were originally bred for herding. Their distinctively shaped ears play a role in their sharp sense of hearing, adding much appeal to not only their cuteness but functionality as well.

Bloodhound

Bloodhound outdoors
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As with Basset Hounds, The Bloodhound’s long, sweeping ears aren’t just a signature feature; they’re an essential part of their scent-tracking process. These ears, which hang well below their chin, help waft scent particles toward their nose, making them among the best scent-tracking breeds in the world. Their ears are also incredibly soft and almost leathery, helping them maintain focus as they work. Bloodhounds’ ears, combined with their loose skin, serve to create a sort of scent-trapping funnel, making them one of the most unique breeds in terms of ear utility.

Papillon

Papillon in a sea of leaves
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With ears that resemble butterfly wings, the Papillon’s defining feature is unmistakable. In fact, their name, which means “butterfly” in French, is a direct nod to their distinctive ears. Unlike most toy breeds with smaller, floppier ears, the Papillon sports large, wing-like ears that stand erect and open wide, giving them a look of grace and agility. These ears are not just a pretty feature but are incredibly expressive, helping to communicate the Papillon’s lively and alert personality.

Chihuahua

Chihuahua with its pricked eras
ClaudiaWollesen/PixaBay

Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities, and their ears are equally outsized for their itsy-bitsy stature. With large, upright ears that dominate their tiny frames, Chihuahuas’ ears make them appear even more alert and energetic than they already are. These ears are always pointed upwards, ready to detect any sound or movement, which makes them incredibly responsive to their surroundings. Their distinct ear shape also gives them a spunky look that has contributed much to their popularity.

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound with its distinctive ears
Ralphs_Fotos/PixaBay

The Afghan Hound’s long, silky ears are a hallmark of its elegant appearance. Draped in smooth, flowing hair, these ears enhance the breed’s regal look, but they also have a functional part. Originally bred for hunting in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan, their long ears helped protect them against cold winds and harsh conditions. Today, their striking ears are more of a beauty statement, adding to the Afghan Hound’s graceful and sophisticated image, often making them one of the most glamorous-looking dogs.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel outdoors
Katrina_S/PixaBay

Few breeds can match the luxurious, cascading ears of the Cocker Spaniel. These long, soft ears are a breed hallmark, and they are covered in beautiful, wavy fur that adds to their adorable appearance. However, these ears can also be prone to infections due to their heavy coverage and lack of airflow, so regular cleaning is essential. Despite the extra care they need, Cocker Spaniels’ ears are one of their most endearing traits, contributing to their sweet, gentle looks and affectionate personality.

Weimaraner

Weimaraner in a regal look
StockSnap/Pixabay

Weimaraners sport wide, floppy ears that hang down the sides of their heads, further complementing their sleek, athletic build. These ears are long and gracefully droop down, helping to soften the breed’s otherwise intense, hunting-dog gaze. Originally bred as hunting dogs, their large ears helped protect them from debris and the elements while working in the field. Though their ears aren’t as iconic as some other breeds, they are a distinctive feature that adds to the Weimaraner’s regal appearance.

Scottish Terrier

Couple of Scottish Terrier in the beach
Ashford Marx/Pexels

The Scottish Terrier’s sharp, pointy ears give it a bold and confident look, perfectly matching its feisty and independent personality. Unlike other terriers with more rounded or floppy ears, the Scottie’s ears are always standing tall, ready to react to any movement or sound, making them excellent watchdogs as well. Their pointed ears, along with their whiskered face and compact body, give the Scottish Terrier its unmistakable, dignified appearance.

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