When it comes to adorable dogs, those with pointy ears have a special place in our hearts.
The answer may lie in the “baby schema” concept originally proposed by ethologist Konrad Lorenz.1 This set of infantile traits, including large eyes, rounded faces, and high foreheads, has been shown to elicit strong positive emotions and caretaking behavior in humans.
Pointy ears, which often stand upright and alert, add to this cute factor by giving dogs a youthful and attentive appearance, tapping into our innate nurturing instincts.
But beyond their adorable looks, dogs with 20 pointy ears have fascinating histories and unique personalities that make them beloved companions.
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are among the smallest dog breeds, but their oversized pointy ears give them big personalities. These sassy little dogs were originally bred in Mexico and have become popular companions worldwide.
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are known for their bold and confident nature.
They are born with floppy ears that become pointier as they grow, likely due to selective breeding for this adorable trait. These expressive ears allow Chihuahuas to communicate their emotions effectively, making them even more endearing to their owners.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are iconic pointy-eared dogs known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Originally bred in Germany for herding sheep, these dogs have become popular as police, military, and service animals.
Their erect ears and alert expression contribute to their regal appearance. German Shepherd puppies are born with oversized, floppy ears that gradually stand up as they mature, taking about a year to fully develop.
This breed’s pointy ears enhance its striking looks and help it excel in its various roles as a working dog.
3. Corgi
Corgis, particularly the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, are beloved for their pointy ears, short legs, and fluffy bottoms. These herding dogs were favorites of Queen Elizabeth II and have become popular family pets.
Corgis are known for their affectionate nature and playful personalities. Despite their small stature, Corgis are athletic and excel in agility and herding trials.
Their pointy ears and expressive faces make them irresistibly cute and contribute to their status as one of the most recognizable pointy-eared breeds.
4. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs, or Blue Heelers, are intelligent and energetic herding dogs with distinctive pointy ears.
Bred to work with cattle in the harsh Australian outback, these dogs are known for their endurance, agility, and loyalty. They are highly trainable and thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity.
Their pointy ears and striking blue or red speckled coats give them a unique and eye-catching appearance.
5. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are small Japanese hunting dogs with fox-like features, including pointy ears and a curly tail. These independent and spirited dogs have gained popularity worldwide thanks to their adorable appearance and internet fame.
They are popularly known for their bold personalities and cat-like cleanliness.
Pointy ears are a defining characteristic of the breed, contributing to its alert and attentive expression. These ears, along with its compact size and fluffy coat, make it one of the most recognizable and beloved pointy-eared breeds.
6. Siberian Husky
With their striking blue or multi-colored eyes and wolf-like appearance, Siberian Huskies are one of the most recognizable pointy-eared breeds.
Originally bred to pull sleds in the harsh Siberian climate, these dogs are known for their endurance and strength. Their upright ears not only contribute to their stunning looks but also help them stay alert and focused while navigating challenging terrain.
They are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their playful and sometimes mischievous nature makes them entertaining companions for active families.
7. Belgian Malinois
Often mistaken for the German Shepherd, the Belgian Malinois is another breed that sports sharp, pointed ears. These ears give them an alert and focused appearance, perfectly matching their role as highly skilled working dogs.
Due to their intelligence, loyalty, and unwavering work ethic, they are frequently employed in police work, military operations, and search and rescue missions.
As a high-energy breed, Belgian Malinois require regular mental and physical stimulation to thrive. They excel in obedience, agility, and protection work, making them an ideal choice for experienced owners who can provide the necessary training and exercise.
8. Basenji
The Basenji, often called the “barkless dog,” is a small but mighty breed with distinctively pointy ears. Originating in central Africa, these dogs were originally bred for hunting.
Their unique vocalizations, which sound more like yodels than barks, are due to their unusually shaped larynx.
They are known for their independent and curious nature, often likened to cats in their behavior. Their sharp ears help them stay alert to their surroundings, making them excellent hunters and adventurers.
9. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz, a lesser-known breed, boasts fox-like features, including their signature pointy ears. Originally bred for hunting in Finland, these dogs have an acute sense of hearing that allows them to detect sounds from great distances.
Their lively and playful personalities and their love for vocalizing have earned them the nickname “barking bird dogs.”
They are always ready for an adventure, whether chasing after a bird or playing with their beloved family members. Their thick, golden-red coats and alert, upright ears give them a constantly curious and attentive look.
10. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes, one of the oldest Arctic sled dog breeds, are known for their wolf-like appearance and impressive size. Their pointy ears are a defining feature, contributing to their alert and noble look.
They are strong, loyal, and affectionate companions who thrive on human interaction and outdoor activities such as digging holes, a trait inherited from their Arctic ancestors.
As pack animals, Malamutes have a strong instinct to establish dominance, so early training and socialization are crucial. These gentle giants require regular grooming to maintain their thick, fluffy coats.
11. Rat Terrier
Rat Terriers are an American breed known for their oversized pointy ears, which seem to dwarf their small, compact bodies. Originally bred to hunt rats on farms, these energetic and hyperactive dogs require plenty of space to run and play.
Their alert and curious nature, combined with their large, upright ears, make them excellent watchdogs.
As members of the Terrier group, Rat Terriers are fearless and tenacious, always ready for a new adventure. They are affectionate and loyal to their families but may be wary of strangers without proper socialization.
12. Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund, a lesser-known breed, resembles a cross between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a German Shepherd. These pointy-eared dogs were originally bred as herding dogs in Sweden and Norway and are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hardworking nature.
Despite their small size, Vallhunds are strong and agile, excelling in agility and obedience trials.
They are fantastic with children and have a reputation for being patient and gentle. Their alert and watchful nature, combined with their distinctive pointy ears, makes them excellent watchdogs.
13. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound, an ancient breed hailing from the Mediterranean island of Malta, is known for its elegant and athletic build and distinctive pointy ears. These dogs were originally used for hunting rabbits and other small game, and their keen sense of hearing, aided by their erect ears, made them exceptional hunters.
They are friendly, affectionate, and playful companions. They are also intelligent and trainable, excelling in obedience and agility trials.
Their short, glossy coat is easy to maintain, making them a low-maintenance breed in grooming.
14. Canaan Dog
Originating in the Middle East, the Canaan Dog is a rare breed with a rich history dating back to ancient times. (ref) These versatile dogs have served as herders, guardians, and companions, and their pointy ears are a defining characteristic of the breed.
They are highly intelligent, independent, and loyal to their families. They are also naturally clean and have a low odor, making them suitable for apartment living.
As a herding breed, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
15. Kintamani
The Kintamani, also known as the Bali Dog, is a rare breed native to the Indonesian island of Bali. These dogs have a striking appearance, with pointy ears, almond-shaped eyes, and short, dense coats.
They are highly adaptable and thrive in various environments, from the tropical climate of their homeland to colder regions. Kintamani are known to be intelligent, loyal, and protective of their families, making them excellent watchdogs.
As an active breed, they require regular exercise and playtime to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
16. Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is a unique and rare breed with several distinctive features, including pointy ears, six toes on each foot, and the ability to tilt its head backward until it touches its spine. These characteristics were essential for the breed’s original purpose of hunting puffins on the cliffs of Norway.
They are friendly, energetic, and curious dogs who love to explore and play. They are also intelligent and trainable, but their independent nature may make them challenging for novice owners.
As a rare breed, they may be difficult to find and require dedicated care to maintain their health and well-being.
17. Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small Belgian breed known for its fox-like face, thick black coat, and pointy ears. Originally bred as a watchdog and rat-catcher on canal boats, these dogs are alert, curious, and always ready for an adventure.
They are loyal and affectionate companions but can also be independent and mischievous. They are intelligent and trainable, excelling in obedience and agility trials.
Despite their small size, they are fearless and make excellent watchdogs, quickly alerting their owners to potential threats.
18. Jindo
The Jindo, also known as the Korean Jindo Dog, is a medium-sized breed with pointy ears and a thick, double coat. These dogs originated on Jindo Island in South Korea, where they were used for hunting and guarding.
They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and bravery. They form strong bonds with their owners and are highly protective of their families.
As a hunting breed, they have a strong prey drive and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
19. Karelian Bear Dog
The Karelian Bear Dog, a medium-sized breed from Finland, is known for its courage, strength, and distinctive pointy ears. As their name suggests, these dogs were originally used for hunting bears and other large game.
They are intelligent, independent, and highly protective of their families. They require experienced owners who provide firm, consistent training and plenty of exercise.
Their strong hunting instincts may not be suitable for households with small pets.
20. Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog, Iceland’s only native dog breed, is a medium-sized herding dog with pointy ears and a thick, double coat. These dogs have been used for centuries to herd sheep, cattle, and horses in the harsh Icelandic climate.
They are friendly, playful, and eager to please their owners. These dogs are also intelligent and trainable, excelling in obedience, agility, and herding trials.
As a herding breed, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.