If you're looking for a dog breed with big, floppy ears, you're in luck. The Basset Hound is a classic example, with ears that are so long they need to be folded up to prevent them from getting in the way.
Their ears are a result of selective breeding, which has made them a distinctive feature of the breed. The Basset Hound's ears are not just for show, though - they also help the breed to hear and pinpoint sounds.
The Basset Hound's ears are so sensitive that they can pick up even the faintest of sounds. This is why they're often used for hunting small game.
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Dogs with Big Ears
Dogs with big ears are truly a sight to behold. Their impressive ear size not only adds to their majestic appearance but also serves a practical purpose.
Afghan Hounds have impressively long ears covered in long, silky fur that helps them detect distant sounds while hunting in the mountains of Afghanistan.
Their large ears elegantly frame their face, adding to their exotic and aristocratic appearance.
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Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are instantly recognizable with their nearly ground-brushing ears.
Their ears are not just for show; they serve a practical purpose in scent hunting, helping to trap and retain scents close to the nose.
Basset Hounds have a heavy bone structure, huge paws, and immense strength, making them powerful dogs despite their short legs.
These dogs are tenacious when they want something, but they can also be devoted, kid-friendly pets.
Their large ears contribute to their distinctive and endearing look, complementing their laid-back and amiable personality.
Basset Hounds were bred as scent hounds, and their large ears aid in their remarkable sense of smell.
Their long, droopy ears can drag on the ground, but they're an essential part of what makes Basset Hounds so lovable.
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Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their beautiful, long ears that frame their face and enhance their gentle expression.
Their ears are not only a breed hallmark but also add to their overall charm and elegance.
The silky fur that covers their ears adds to their aesthetic appeal, often accentuating their playful and affectionate nature.
Cocker Spaniels were originally hunting dogs, and their ears helped to protect their ear canals from debris and aid in tracking scents.
As they run, their ears flap in the wind, adding a whimsical and joyful quality to their appearance.
Other Notable Breeds
The adorable breeds with big ears are just the beginning. The Basset Hound's ears are so low-set and long that they can reach the ground, helping them detect scents that other breeds might miss.
Their ears aren't the only notable feature of the Basset Hound, but they're certainly a standout. The breed's calm and gentle nature makes them a great companion for families.
The Beagle's ears are another notable example, with their floppy ears helping to funnel scents directly to their nose. This unique feature makes them expert sniffers, capable of tracking small game with ease.
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Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a majestic breed with a stunning appearance. Their long, silky fur is a key part of their regal look.
Their large ears are particularly noteworthy, playing a crucial role in detecting distant sounds while hunting in the mountains of Afghanistan.
The breed's aloof and dignified demeanor is often highlighted by the way their ears elegantly frame their face.
Papillon
The Papillon is a small breed with a big personality, and their large, butterfly-like ears are a defining feature.
Their name, "Papillon", which means "butterfly" in French, aptly describes the appearance of their ears – upright with long, fringed fur that resembles the wings of a butterfly.
Papillons are known for their alert and expressive nature, and their ears play a significant role in conveying their emotions.
Despite their small size, Papillons have a confident and lively demeanor, often accentuated by the movement and positioning of their distinctive ears.
Related reading: Types of Small Dog
Their ears are not just for show; they also come in a drop-ear variety called the Phalene.
Papillons are calm, outgoing, and affectionate, making them a great companion for many families.
Their name hints at their appearance: Papillon means “butterfly” in French, and their ears are indeed wing-shaped.
These big-eared sweeties are known for being calm, outgoing, and affectionate, which makes them a great addition to any family.
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Great Dane
Great Danes are known for their colossal size, which is a trait that's hard to ignore. Their large, floppy ears add to their gentle giant persona.
Their ears may not be as long as some other breeds, but they're still proportionately large and contribute to their dignified expression.
Great Danes were originally bred for hunting, and their ears aided in their tracking abilities.
Here's an interesting read: Great Dane National Dog Show 2023
Beagle
Beagles are bred for hunting, and their oversized ears help to trap scents, aiding in their tracking abilities.
Their long ears hang down the sides of their face and are often in motion, flopping around as they follow a scent trail.
Beagles have a friendly and curious nature, making them one of the most lovable breeds.
Their expressive ears, along with their big, brown eyes, often give them a look of innocence and charm.
Their adorable appearance is a big part of their charm, with their oversized ears being a standout feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of dog looks like a fox with big ears?
The Shiba Inu is a small dog breed that resembles a fox with its thick coat and perky ears. Known for its unique appearance, the Shiba Inu is a popular breed that's also famously associated with the cryptocurrency Dogecoin.
What is the big hunting dog with long ears?
The Bloodhound is a large hunting dog breed known for its distinctive long ears. This majestic breed has been used for centuries to hunt deer and wild boar.
What breed of dog has long ears that look like hair?
The Afghan Hound has ears covered in long, silky hair that resemble a flowing mane. This distinctive feature is a key characteristic of the breed.
How big do Bloodhounds get?
Bloodhounds typically stand 23-27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 110 pounds. Their large size makes them a majestic breed to behold.
Sources
- 10 Dog Breeds with the Most Comically Oversized Ears (iheartdogs.com)
- Bedlington Terrier (akc.org)
- 9 Distinctive and Adorable Dogs with Long Ears (thesprucepets.com)
- 13 Dogs with Big Ears That Are Next-Level Adorable (rd.com)
- dogs typically hear (petmeds.org)
- actually named for the shape of their ears (akc.org)
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