At What Age Do Boston Terrier's Ears Stand Up?

Boston Terriers are an iconic breed of dog that are known for their distinctive look. The breed is characterized by its square head, short muzzle, and large eyes. One of the most recognizable features of the Boston Terrier is its ears, which are usually erect and pointy. But at what age do Boston Terrier's ears stand up?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the individual dog, its genetics, and the care it receives. Generally, Boston Terrier's ears will start to stand up around three to four months of age. However, some puppies may take longer to develop their ears, while others may have them standing up sooner.

The ears of a Boston Terrier are made of cartilage, which is not as strong as bone. As the puppy grows, the cartilage in the ear gradually strengthens, allowing the ears to stand up more firmly. During this time, the puppy will likely experience some discomfort as their ears start to stand up and the cartilage strengthens. To help alleviate this discomfort, owners can provide their puppy with a soft, warm pad to lay on, such as a fleece blanket or towel.

It is important to note that the ears of a Boston Terrier may never stand up completely. This is because some puppies have softer cartilage than others, or due to genetics or environmental factors. If the ears of a Boston Terrier remain floppy, there is no need for concern. The breed is still as recognizable and beloved, even if the ears remain slightly floppy.

In addition to the age at which Boston Terrier's ears stand up, the care they receive can also affect the shape and firmness of the ears. If the ears are allowed to flop around, the cartilage may not have enough time to strengthen, resulting in floppy ears. To ensure that the ears of a Boston Terrier stand up firmly, owners should brush them with a soft toothbrush or a damp cloth every day. This will help to stimulate the cartilage and keep the ears in shape.

Some owners may also choose to tape their Boston Terrier's ears, which is a method that has been used to help ears stand up more firmly. Taping involves the use of medical tape that is wrapped around the ear, holding it in place until the cartilage is strengthened enough to hold the ear up naturally. While taping is a common practice, owners should be aware that it can be painful for the puppy and should be done with caution.

At the end of the day, the age at which Boston Terrier's ears stand up is highly variable and depends on a variety of factors. While most puppies will have their ears standing up by three to four months of age, some may take longer or have only partially erect ears. Regardless of the shape of the ears, Boston Terriers remain a beloved breed with a unique look.