Can you tape a dog’s ears to make them stand up? Yes, taping dog ears is a common practice, especially for breeds where upright ears are the desired look, such as Great Danes, Dobermans, and certain terrier types. This process, known as posting or posting dog ears, helps train the cartilage to stand erect as the dog matures.
Why We Post Dog Ears: The Goal of Taping
Posting dog ears is done primarily after an ear crop surgery. The surgery changes the ear’s shape. Taping guides the new shape as it heals. This ensures the ears stand tall and straight, matching breed standards. It is crucial for aesthetics and sometimes function in certain breeds. The dog ear taping technique is vital for good results.
Deciphering Cartilage Strength
When a puppy is young, their ear cartilage is soft. Taping provides support while the cartilage hardens. If you wait too long, the cartilage might never stand fully erect. Early taping is easier and gives better shape control.
Preparing for the Taping Process
Before you start taping, good preparation prevents stress for both you and your dog.
Selecting the Right Supplies
You need specific items for safe and effective taping. Using the wrong materials can hurt the dog’s skin or fail to support the ear properly.
| Supply | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Tape | Holding the posts in place. | Use skin-safe, breathable tape. Athletic tape works well. |
| Foam or Cardboard Rods | Creating the internal support structure. | These are the ‘posts’. They must be firm but not sharp. |
| Adhesive Remover/Oil | Safely removing sticky residue. | Helps protect the skin when taking the tape off. |
| Gauze or Cotton | Padding under the tape if needed. | Protects the base of the ear from rubbing. |
| Scissors | Cutting tape and padding. | Sharp scissors are needed for clean cuts. |
Assessing the Ear Crop Site
This is most important after surgery. Ear crop aftercare is step one. The incision must be fully healed before you begin taping.
- Check for redness or swelling.
- Ensure all stitches are out and the ear seam care after cropping is clean.
- If there is any sign of infection, wait and call your vet. Do not tape an infected ear.
The Step-by-Step Dog Ear Taping Technique
This section focuses on the dog ear taping technique for setting the ears correctly. Follow these steps closely.
Step 1: Preparing the Posts
The posts are the core of the support structure.
- Measure the Post: The post length must be slightly longer than the ear. It should reach the tip of the ear when standing up.
- Create the Base: Place a small piece of soft foam or cotton at the base of the post. This sits inside the ear canal opening. This stops the post from pushing too far down.
- Padding: Wrap the post lightly with medical tape or gauze. This makes it smooth and less irritating.
Step 2: Placing the Post Inside the Ear
This requires a gentle hand.
- Hold the ear flap gently. Lift it straight up.
- Insert the padded end of the post into the ear canal opening. Do not jam it in. It should sit comfortably.
- Position the post so it runs straight up the center line of the ear flap. This ensures the ear stands straight, not crooked.
Step 3: Taping the Ear to the Post
This step secures the ear to the post. This is the most critical part of posting dog ears.
- Anchor Tape: Start by taping the base of the ear to the post first. Use a small strip of tape where the ear meets the post, just above the base of the head. This anchors the post firmly.
- Wrapping the Ear: Begin wrapping the tape from the base of the ear upwards toward the tip. Wrap in a spiral motion. Each wrap should overlap the last by about half.
- Tension Check: Keep the tape snug, but never tight. Too much tension can cut off blood flow or cause sores. You should be able to easily slip one finger under the tape line.
- Securing the Tip: When you reach the tip, secure the tape well. If the ear flops over the top of the post, tape it securely around the post tip.
Step 4: Taping the Second Ear (If Applicable)
If both ears are being posted, ensure they are parallel.
- Creating the Brace (The “Base”): This is often done after both ears are taped individually. Use a wide strip of tape or an elastic band to connect the two posts near the top of the head. This keeps the ears spaced correctly and prevents them from leaning inward or outward. This is essential for the correct way to tape Great Dane ears or other large breeds.
Specific Breed Considerations for Ear Setting
Different breeds require slight adjustments to the dog ear taping technique.
Taping Pitbull Ears for Prick
Pitbulls often have thicker, heavier ear leather. This requires very firm support.
- Use slightly thicker posts, like rigid foam or even wooden dowels (properly padded).
- Focus on a strong base anchor tape job, as the weight of the ear can pull the tape loose easily.
- Taping Pitbull ears for prick often means leaving them posted longer than other breeds.
Correct Way to Tape Great Dane Ears
Great Dane ears are long and heavy. The support needs to be robust.
- Posts must be very strong—often rigid plastic pipe or thick foam rollers work best.
- The goal is often a very tall, straight ear. Use multiple support tapes running from the post down toward the skull for added stability.
- Because of their size, Danes often need longer posting periods.
Ear Setting Solutions and Products
Some owners use specialized products instead of standard medical tape.
- Ear Setting Solutions: These are often commercial adhesives or light hardening sprays. They help stiffen the ear leather slightly before taping, leading to a firmer stand. Always test these solutions on a small patch of skin first to check for reactions.
- Brace Systems: Pre-made plastic or metal bracing systems are available. These replace the need for extensive wrapping but require careful fitting to avoid pressure points.
Maintenance and Changing the Tapes
Leaving the tapes on for too long causes skin problems. Changing them regularly is key to success.
How Often to Change Tapes
The general rule is to change the tapes every 5 to 7 days. This timing depends on the dog’s activity level and skin condition.
- Active Dogs: If the dog plays hard, you might need to change tapes every 3–4 days.
- Skin Issues: If you notice dampness or odor, change them immediately.
Removing the Tape Safely
Removing the tape too fast can rip the skin or pull out hair. This is painful for the dog.
- Soften the Adhesive: Use an adhesive remover or mineral oil (like baby oil) around the edges of the tape. Gently work the oil under the tape for several minutes.
- Peel Slowly: Pull the tape off slowly, peeling it against the direction of hair growth if possible. Support the ear skin while peeling.
- Clean the Ears: Wash the ears gently with a mild, antiseptic wash. Let the ears breathe completely before re-taping.
Post-Removal Inspection and Care
This is crucial for health. Check the skin thoroughly after removal.
- Look for sores, chafing, or irritation where the tape touched the skin.
- This is where ear seam care after cropping continues post-surgery. If the incision line is irritated, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment recommended by your vet before re-taping.
- If the ear seems weak or floppy after removal, it needs to go back up immediately.
Troubleshooting Common Taping Problems
Even with the best intentions, issues arise. Knowing how to fix them saves time and stress.
Problem 1: Ears Leaning Inward (Crossed)
This happens when the base support is too narrow, or the posts are not perfectly parallel.
- Fix: Increase the width of the brace connecting the two posts. Ensure the posts stand perfectly straight up from the head, not leaning toward each other.
Problem 2: Ears Flopping at the Tip
This means the cartilage at the tip is not strong enough to stand unsupported.
- Fix: Make the post longer so it extends past the tip of the ear. Wrap the tape tighter around the top inch of the ear, ensuring the post supports the very tip firmly. You may need to leave them posted for longer periods.
Problem 3: Skin Irritation or Sores
This is common, especially in humid weather or if the tapes stay on too long.
- Fix: Give the ears a full 24-hour rest between taping sessions. Use a medicated powder or cornstarch lightly on the skin before reapplying the tape. If sores are deep, see your vet for treatment.
Problem 4: The Tapes Keep Falling Off
This is frustrating and reduces the effectiveness of how to set dog ears.
- Fix: Use a stronger adhesive tape. Make sure the initial anchor tape where the post meets the head is extremely secure. Sometimes, shaving the hair very close to the base helps the tape stick better.
When to Stop Taping Dog Ears
This is a common question for new owners dealing with this process. When to stop taping dog ears depends on the breed, the dog’s age, and the vet’s recommendation.
Age and Cartilage Maturity
Most breeders suggest stopping when the dog reaches physical maturity for their breed, or when the ears consistently stand straight for several weeks after a tape change.
| Breed Example | Approximate Taping Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Doberman Pinscher | 3 to 9 months | Varies highly by bloodline. |
| Great Dane | 4 to 12 months | Longer periods are common due to ear weight. |
| Small Terriers | 2 to 6 months | Often quicker due to lighter ear structure. |
The Final Test: The Stand Test
When you think it’s time to stop, perform a ‘stand test’ rather than just stopping cold turkey.
- Change the tapes as usual.
- After 3 days, remove the tapes. Do not retape them.
- Monitor the ears closely for the next 48 hours. If they stand fully erect without wobbling or flopping, you can stop taping.
- If they begin to droop after 24 hours, they need to go back up immediately for another two weeks before another test.
Maintaining Upright Ears After Posting
Even after you stop taping, the ears might occasionally flop during heavy play or sleep. This is usually normal, provided they perk right back up.
Light Support for Occasional Flopping
If the ears are 95% straight but occasionally lean, you might use very light support for a short time.
- Use lightweight foam padding only at the base, held by a wide, loose elastic band wrapped around the head. This is gentle dog ear bandaging meant only for mild guidance, not rigid support.
Encouraging Muscle Strength
Encourage the dog to use the ear muscles naturally. Gentle scratching or calling the dog’s name can help promote natural standing.
Safety and Ethical Considerations
It is vital to remember that ear cropping and posting are sensitive topics. Owners must prioritize the dog’s health above all else.
Veterinary Guidance is Non-Negotiable
Never start or stop the posting process without consulting the surgeon who performed the crop or your primary veterinarian. They provide breed-specific advice and can check for underlying issues. They will advise on the best ear setting solutions for your dog.
Recognizing Pain and Distress
A dog in pain will show signs during taping or removal. Watch for:
- Excessive head shaking.
- Whining or resisting handling.
- Scratching violently at the taped ears.
If you see these signs, stop, remove the tape immediately, and consult a vet. A painful ear stand is not a successful stand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Taping Dog Ears
Can taping damage my dog’s hearing?
If done correctly with appropriate tension and padding, taping should not damage hearing. However, if the posts are shoved too deeply into the ear canal, or if tape covers the actual ear opening, it can block sound or cause moisture buildup leading to infection, which can affect hearing. Always ensure the tape stays on the outside flap, not blocking the canal entrance.
How long does it take for dog ears to stand up after cropping?
This varies greatly by breed and genetics. For most breeds like Dobermans or Danes, the active posting phase can last anywhere from two months to over a year. Some ears stand quickly, while others require continuous support until the dog is almost fully grown.
What happens if I miss a taping session or wait too long to retape?
If you miss a session, especially in younger dogs, the cartilage can start setting in the wrong position. If you notice the ear folding or bending, you must retape immediately to correct the developing shape. Skipping sessions means the progress you made is lost, and you restart the training process.
Is it possible to tape floppy ears on a dog whose crop was done years ago?
Generally, no. Cartilage starts setting permanently as the dog matures, usually after 12-18 months. If the ears are fully mature and floppy, taping may offer temporary uprightness, but the cartilage will likely fall back down once the tape is removed, as the structure is set. This is why timing is crucial for how to set dog ears.