Why Do Dogs Put Their Ears Back

October 1, 2023

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They come in different breeds, sizes, and colors, but all dogs have a similar body language. One of the most common behaviors that dogs exhibit is putting their ears back. It’s an instinctive behavior that can indicate different things depending on the situation. In this article, we will explore why dogs put their ears back and what it means.

The Anatomy of a Dog’s Ear

Before we dive into why dogs put their ears back, let’s first understand the anatomy of a dog’s ear. A dog’s ear has three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear is made up of the pinna (or auricle), which is the visible part of the ear that sticks out from the head. The middle ear contains the eardrum and three small bones that transmit sound from the eardrum to the inner ear. The inner ear contains the cochlea, which is responsible for hearing, and the semicircular canals, which help with balance.

Why Do Dogs Put Their Ears Back?

There are several reasons why dogs put their ears back:

1. Fear or Anxiety

When a dog feels scared or anxious, it may put its ears back as a way to protect them from harm. This behavior helps to minimize any potential damage to their sensitive ears if they were attacked by another animal or person.

2. Aggression

On the other hand, some dogs may put their ears back when they feel aggressive or threatened. This behavior can signal to other animals or humans that they are ready to fight if necessary.

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3. Submission

Dogs may also put their ears back as a sign of submission or deference to another dog or a human. By doing so, they are showing respect and acknowledging their lower status in the pack hierarchy.

4. Playfulness

Sometimes dogs put their ears back when they are playing. This behavior can indicate that they are having fun and are not aggressive or afraid.

5. Sensory Overload

Lastly, dogs may put their ears back when they experience sensory overload. This can happen when they are in a noisy or chaotic environment, and their ears become overwhelmed with too much stimulation.

How to Interpret Your Dog’s Ear Movements

Now that we know why dogs put their ears back let’s explore some other ear movements and what they mean:

1. Ears Forward

When a dog’s ears are forward, it usually means they are alert and interested in something. They could be listening for a specific sound or paying attention to something in front of them.

2. Ears Up

Ears up usually means the dog is excited or happy about something. It can also indicate that they are feeling confident or dominant.

3. Ears Flat

Flat ears usually indicate fear or aggression. When a dog’s ears are flat against their head, it typically means they feel threatened or attacked, and they may lash out if provoked.

4. One Ear Up, One Ear Down

This position usually indicates confusion or uncertainty. The dog may be trying to figure out what is happening around them and is unsure how to react.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, dogs put their ears back for several reasons, including fear, aggression, submission, playfulness, and sensory overload. Understanding your dog’s ear movements can help you communicate better with them and avoid misinterpreting their behavior. Remember that each dog is unique, so it’s essential to pay attention to your pet’s body language and personality traits to better understand them fully.