Yorkie Ears Tipped: Everything You Need to Know

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as they are affectionately called, are known for their charming personalities and their adorable, long, silky coats. But one of the most distinctive features of these little dogs is their ears. Unlike many other breeds, Yorkie ears are naturally tipped or folded over, giving them their characteristic “V” shape.

This article will delve into the world of Yorkie ears, addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about this unique feature. We’ll cover topics like why Yorkie ears are tipped, how to care for them, and what to do if your Yorkie’s ears seem to be standing up.

Why Are Yorkie Ears Tipped?

Yorkie ears are tipped due to a combination of factors:

• Genetics: The breed standard for Yorkies specifies tipped ears. This means that over generations, selective breeding has favored dogs with naturally tipped ears, resulting in this trait becoming a defining characteristic of the breed.
• Cartilage: The cartilage in Yorkie ears is relatively flexible, making them prone to folding over. This flexibility, combined with the ear’s shape and the weight of the long fur, contributes to the tipped appearance.
• Weight of the Coat: Yorkie coats are known for their luxurious length and thickness. The weight of the fur on the ears can pull them downwards, further enhancing the tipped look.

While tipped ears are considered the ideal for the Yorkie breed, there are some instances where a Yorkie’s ears may stand up instead of being tipped. This can be due to various reasons, including:

• Age: Yorkie puppies’ ears may initially stand up, but they typically begin to tip as they grow older.
• Genetics: In rare cases, a Yorkie may inherit genes that result in ears that stand up.
• Injury: If a Yorkie’s ear is injured, it could affect its ability to tip properly.
• Ear Infections: An ear infection can cause inflammation and swelling, which can make the ear cartilage more rigid, leading to the ear standing up.

How to Care for Yorkie Ears

Proper ear care is crucial for maintaining the health of your Yorkie’s ears and preventing problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide to caring for your Yorkie’s tipped ears:

1. Regular Cleaning: Weekly ear cleaning is essential. Use a cotton ball or gauze pad dampened with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaning solution. Gently wipe the inside of the ear flap, avoiding pushing anything deep into the ear canal.
2. Check for Signs of Infection: During ear cleaning, examine the ear for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, discharge, odor, or excessive scratching. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms.
3. Trim Hair: The hair inside the ear canal can trap moisture and debris, increasing the risk of infection. Trim the hair inside the ear canal regularly using blunt-tipped scissors or electric clippers designed for pet grooming.
4. Keep Ears Dry: After bathing or swimming, ensure your Yorkie’s ears are thoroughly dried. Moisture can encourage bacteria growth, leading to infection.
5. Avoid Harsh Products: Use ear cleaning solutions specifically formulated for dogs. Harsh chemicals can irritate the delicate skin in the ears.

What to Do If Your Yorkie’s Ears Stand Up

If your Yorkie’s ears are standing up, it’s important to determine the underlying cause. As mentioned earlier, this could be due to age, genetics, injury, or ear infection.

If your Yorkie is a puppy, it’s likely their ears will eventually tip as they grow older. However, if your adult Yorkie’s ears are standing up and you’re concerned, consult your veterinarian. They can examine your Yorkie’s ears and determine the cause of the standing ears. They may recommend treatments such as medication for ear infections or even ear taping to help encourage tipping.

Ear taping is a common practice used to help encourage ear tipping in puppies, especially those who have a predisposition for standing ears. It involves carefully taping the ears down, often using medical tape, to help them fold over. It’s essential to have this done by a professional groomer or veterinarian as incorrect taping can cause damage.

Are Yorkie Ears Sensitive?

Yorkie ears are known for being particularly sensitive due to their thin skin and delicate cartilage. This sensitivity means they are more prone to irritation and infection.

It’s crucial to avoid using harsh chemicals or rubbing the ears vigorously. Additionally, excessive ear pulling can cause discomfort and damage. If you notice any signs of irritation, redness, or discharge, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Can You Force Yorkie Ears to Tip?

While taping can help encourage tipping in puppies, it’s important to understand that you cannot force a Yorkie’s ears to tip. If a Yorkie’s ears are genetically predisposed to stand up, taping may not be successful. It’s essential to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on how to manage your Yorkie’s ears.

What Do You Do If Your Yorkie Has One Tipped Ear and One Standing Ear?

If your Yorkie has one tipped ear and one standing ear, this is often referred to as a “half-tipped” or “one-eared” Yorkie. While it’s not unusual for Yorkies to have slightly asymmetrical ears, a significant difference can be cause for concern.

First, rule out any underlying health issues. If there is no medical explanation, it’s usually a matter of genetics. It’s important to understand that this doesn’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong with your Yorkie. It’s simply a variation within the breed standard. If you’re concerned about the appearance, you can consult a professional groomer for advice on grooming techniques to help minimize the asymmetry.

Can You Cut Yorkie Ears?

Ear cropping, the practice of surgically altering a dog’s ears, is a controversial procedure. It is considered an unnecessary cosmetic procedure in many countries and is illegal in some.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not allow cropped ears in the Yorkie breed standard. It is important to note that ear cropping can potentially cause complications such as infection, pain, and scarring. For Yorkies, their naturally tipped ears are a part of their breed identity and do not need to be altered.

What Do You Do If Your Yorkie Ear Is Torn?

If your Yorkie’s ear is torn, it’s essential to seek immediate veterinary attention. A torn ear can be painful and susceptible to infection. Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the tear and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include cleaning, stitching, or even surgery depending on the extent of the damage.

After any ear injury, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for wound care diligently to prevent complications.

What If Yorkie Ears Are Not Tipped, Can You Still Show Them?

While tipped ears are preferred in the Yorkie breed standard, a Yorkie with untipped ears can still be shown in conformation events. The American Kennel Club (AKC) judges the overall quality of the dog, including temperament, coat, structure, and movement.

The ear conformation is just one aspect of the judging process. If your Yorkie has other qualities that meet the breed standard, they can still compete and potentially win awards.

How to Clean Your Yorkie’s Ears

Regular ear cleaning is crucial for maintaining the health of your Yorkie’s ears and preventing problems. Follow these steps for a safe and effective cleaning routine:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaning solution, cotton balls or gauze pads, and a towel.
2. Warm the solution: Gently warm the ear cleaning solution to room temperature. Avoid using cold or hot solutions, as this can be uncomfortable for your Yorkie.
3. Fill the ear flap: With your Yorkie’s head tilted, gently fill the ear flap with the solution. Avoid pushing the solution deep into the ear canal.
4. Massage the base of the ear: Massage the base of the ear for 15-30 seconds to allow the solution to loosen any debris.
5. Wipe the ear flap: Use a cotton ball or gauze pad to gently wipe the inside of the ear flap, removing any excess solution and debris.
6. Repeat for both ears: Repeat the cleaning process for the other ear.
7. Dry the ears: Use a clean, dry towel to dry the outside of your Yorkie’s ears.
8. Reward your Yorkie: After the cleaning process, reward your Yorkie with a treat or praise to make the experience positive.

When to See a Vet About Yorkie Ears

It’s essential to seek veterinary attention if you notice any of the following signs in your Yorkie’s ears:

• Redness or inflammation
• Swelling
• Discharge, especially if it is thick, foul-smelling, or bloody
• Excessive scratching or head shaking
• Pain or tenderness when the ear is touched
• Changes in ear shape or position, especially if they are new or sudden

Early intervention can prevent minor ear problems from developing into serious infections. A veterinarian can diagnose the underlying cause of your Yorkie’s ear problems and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Yorkie Ears – Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Yorkie ears:

Why Do Yorkie Ears Fold Over?

Yorkie ears are tipped due to a combination of genetics and the shape and flexibility of their ear cartilage. Over generations, selective breeding has favored dogs with naturally tipped ears. The flexibility of the cartilage, combined with the weight of the long fur, contributes to the tipped appearance.

Are Yorkie Ears Different From Other Breeds’ Ears?

Yes, Yorkie ears are unique. Unlike many other breeds, Yorkie ears are naturally tipped or folded over, giving them their characteristic “V” shape.

Can You Trim Yorkie Ears?

It’s not recommended to trim the tips of Yorkie ears. The ear shape and tipping are part of the breed standard. However, you can trim the hair inside the ear canal to prevent buildup of wax and debris.

Can You Tape Yorkie Ears?

Ear taping is a common practice used to help encourage ear tipping in puppies, especially those who have a predisposition for standing ears. It involves carefully taping the ears down, often using medical tape, to help them fold over. It’s essential to have this done by a professional groomer or veterinarian as incorrect taping can cause damage.

Can You Use Ear Candles On Yorkies?

Ear candling, a practice that involves inserting a hollow candle into the ear canal, is not recommended for dogs. It is considered unsafe and can cause serious injuries, including burns, ear canal blockage, and even eardrum rupture.

What To Do If Your Yorkie Has A Torn Ear?

If your Yorkie’s ear is torn, it’s essential to seek immediate veterinary attention. A torn ear can be painful and susceptible to infection. Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the tear and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include cleaning, stitching, or even surgery depending on the extent of the damage.

What To Do If Your Yorkie Ears Are Standing Up?

If your Yorkie’s ears are standing up, it’s important to determine the underlying cause. As mentioned earlier, this could be due to age, genetics, injury, or ear infection. If your Yorkie is a puppy, it’s likely their ears will eventually tip as they grow older. However, if your adult Yorkie’s ears are standing up and you’re concerned, consult your veterinarian. They can examine your Yorkie’s ears and determine the cause of the standing ears. They may recommend treatments such as medication for ear infections or even ear taping to help encourage tipping.

Yorkie Ears – Summary Table