Many dog breeds have a signature look: Some have beards and mustaches, others prove wrinkles are stylish, while some breeds double as fluffy white clouds and a few even have floppy ears.
Floppy-eared dog breeds often immediately grab your attention, and it’s easy to see why. While it’s often said that the eyes reveal one’s inner self, the irresistible urge to pet, play with, and scratch dogs with floppy ears makes them particularly endearing.cuddle sessions oh so soothing. But listen up: Vets note that you’ll want to give floppy-eared dog breeds some extra TLC, though.
“Dogs with floppy ears tend to have reduced airflow to the ear canal, which can trap moisture and debris,” shares Dr. Nita Vasudevan, DVM,According to a veterinary expert affiliated with Embrace Pet Insurance, this characteristic increases their susceptibility to ear infections, particularly if they frequently swim or suffer from allergies.
Dr. Vasudevan recommends weekly ear checks, gentle cleaning with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser and thoroughly drying ears after baths or swimming. Even if you check all the boxes, keep an eye out for ear troubles.
“If you notice redness, odor, head shaking or discharge, have a vet check them promptly,” Dr. Vasudevan says.
Important practicalities aside, pups with floppy ears can make wonderful pets for the right families. Veterinarians shared their favorite traits about six dogs with floppy ears that you’ll paw-sitively flip for!
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6 Dogs With Floppy Ears
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
How lovable is this dog with floppy ears?
Dr. Emily Compton, DVM, a veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals, describes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as “one of the sweetest breeds you will ever meet.” This floppy-eared dog is calm, gentle and bonds deeply and quickly with people of all ages—from kids to older couples.
“They do well in almost any setting and with any type of family,” Dr. Compton raves. “If you are someone older looking for a calm, yet loyal companion, this might be the perfect dog with floppy ears for you.”
Breed Stats:
- Personality: Affectionate, gentle, graceful
- Height: 12–13 inches
- Weight: 13–18 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
2. Cocker Spaniel
There’s no denying this is one of the cutest dogs with floppy ears around.
“Cockers are playful dogs with expressive eyes and silky coats,” Dr. Vasudevan says.
Their coat and eyes—combined with their floppy ears—make Cocker Spaniels one of the more recognizable breeds. While popular, Dr. Vasudevan emphasizes that the dogs require ample physical and mental stimulation, as well as regular grooming.
Dr. Compton echoes these sentiments but emphasizes that Cocker Spaniels are wonderful pets, especially if you’re looking for a dog with floppy ears.
“They are best suited for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and engaging in activities like walking, playing and training,” Dr. Compton. “They are…also very gentle, making them a great family dog if you have kids. They are very smart, making them easy to train.”
Breed Stats:
- Personality: Smart, happy, gentle
- Height: 13.5–15.5 inches
- Weight: 20–30 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–13 years
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3. Irish Setters
This athletic, floppy-eared dog breed boasts a noteworthy red coat, long, graceful long legs and an irresistibly extroverted personality.
“Irish Setters are outgoing, high-energy athletes that love running, playing and meeting new people,” Dr. Vasudevan shares. “They’re happiest in homes with big yards or active owners.”
Indeed, Irish Setters tend to get along swimmingly with small children, other dogs and strangers but are balls of energy with high stimulation needs.
Breed Stats:
- Personality: Active, sweet-natured, outgoing
- Height: 25–27 inches
- Weight: 60–70 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
4. Havanese
The Havanese may be a toy dog breed with floppy ears, but these pups go big on love and cheer.
“Havanese are affectionate and great with children,” Dr. Compton explains. “They are easy to train and have lower exercise needs than a lot of other breeds. They are very adaptable and do well in most living environments, whether that be a house with a yard or an apartment.”
Breed Stats
- Personality: Intelligent, outgoing, funny
- Height: 8.5–11.5 inches
- Weight: 7–13 pounds
- Lifespan: 14–16 years
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5. Weimaraner
Dr. Compton shares that hallmark Weimaraner traits include loyalty, intelligence and adorably long ears. While those ears require care, Weimaraners don’t have high-maintenance grooming needs, but they do need plenty of attention and enrichment.
“Their short coat also makes them easy to groom,” Dr. Compton reports. “These dogs with floppy ears are very high-energy pets, so they do best with a person or family that has the time to exercise them and take them along on adventures.”
Breed Stats:
- Personality: Friendly, fearless, obedient
- Height: 23–27 inches
- Weight: 55–90 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–13 years
6. Beagle
When it comes to dogs with floppy ears, a Beagle might come to mind. And these cuties are known for being social butterflies in the dog world.
“They are very social dogs and are extremely smart, making them easy to train,” Dr. Compton says. “They have very inviting personalities, do well around other dogs and are great for children.”
You could say that life with this dog breed with floppy ears is a howling good time—literally.
“They have a lot of energy and are very vocal, so they do best with active families that want a dog to go on adventures with them,” Dr. Compton says.
Safety is important when adventuring with a beagle, though.
“Their strong scenting instinct means they should be kept on-leash or in secure yards,” Dr. Vasudevan shares.
Breed Stats:
- Personality: Curious, friendly, merry
- Height: Under 13 inches or 13–15 inches
- Weight: Under 20 pounds (under 13 inches) or 20–30 pounds (13–15 inches)
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
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Sources:
- Dr. Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor
- Dr. Emily Compton, DVM, a veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. American Kennel Club.
- Cocker Spaniel. American Kennel Club.
- Irish Setter. American Kennel Club.
- Havanese. American Kennel Club.
- Weimaraner. American Kennel Club.
- Beagle. American Kennel Club.
