18 Rose Eared Dog Breeds

Imagine the perfect dog – is it friendly, playful, loyal, and perhaps has a unique feature that sets it apart? If so, a rose eared dog breed might be the perfect match for you!

Some dogs may even have bat ears or cocked ears, but it’s the rose ears that truly stand out. This unique ear shape, reminiscent of a blooming rose, adds a distinctive charm to these breeds.

Stick around, and we’ll introduce you to the 18 most notable rose-eared dog breeds in the canine world.

Key Takeaways

• Explore 19 unique breeds with rose ears, from the loyal English Bulldog to the independent Italian Greyhound.
• Caring for your rose eared dog involves regular grooming and ear cleaning, as well as consistent training and socialization.
• Grooming is essential with different dog breeds requiring different levels of care.

Exploring Rose Eared Dog Breeds

Dog ears are one of the most expressive parts of a dog’s body language. A slight twitch or a full perk can speak volumes about what’s going on in your dog’s mind.

But did you know that ear shape, such as button ears or prick ears, can also hint at a breed’s history and purpose?

That’s certainly the case with dog breeds with rose ears. Their unique ear shape, which folds back to reveal the inner ear, creates a beautiful rose-like appearance, hence the name.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Rose ears can give dogs an edge when running, reducing wind resistance and enhancing their aerodynamics.

So, let’s take a look at 19 dog breeds with rose ears.

1. English Bulldog

Imagine a dog with an adorably gloomy face, wide shoulders, and a charmingly rolling gait. You’re picturing an English Bulldog!

Known for their sweet nature, reliability, and compatibility with kids, these medium-sized dogs are a mix of strength, power, and undeniable charm.

Despite their somewhat intimidating muscular body, English Bulldogs have a soft side. Their big head, broad shoulders, and short snout are offset by cute, droopy rose ears that add to their endearing appearance.

Their short, thick coat can be white, brindle, or even fawn, but it’s those distinctive ears that make them a standout among rose eared breeds.

These dogs are known for their friendly and courageous personality. English Bulldogs are loyal to a fault, making excellent watchdogs. They’re smart, eager to please, and therefore, relatively easy to train.

English Bulldogs have a fascinating history. They are descendants of the ancient Mastiff-type dogs of England, originally bred for bull-baiting. Thankfully, this cruel sport was outlawed in 1835, but the Bulldogs’ strength and courage persist to this day, making them a truly resilient dog breed.

2. Greyhound

When we think about speed in the canine world, Greyhounds are undoubtedly one of the first breeds that come to mind.

Known for their incredible agility and speed, Greyhounds are a marvel of nature and a perfect blend of strength and elegance. Their aerodynamic body is built for sprints, with their ears acting as a contributing factor.

A Greyhound’s ears usually sit backwards, creating a rose ear effect that adds to their streamlined physique.

This unique ear position, coupled with their sighthound instincts, makes them expert hunters that rely on sight rather than scent. While they are generally friendly and affectionate, proper socialization is crucial to prevent any territorial aggression.

3. Boxer

Boxers are another example of rose-eared breeds that are as smart as they are loyal. Taking a closer look at their physical features, from their muscular body to their high-energy personality, you’ll see why they have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

Boxers showcase their German heritage with their pointed ears that reveal the inner side, giving them a rose-like appearance. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that Boxers’ ears are cropped to be pointy, so you can see the inner side of the ears, creating a unique rose ear aesthetic.

Known for their playful and friendly disposition, Boxers are incredibly loyal and make great family dogs. They are quite intelligent and eager to please, making training sessions a breeze.

Despite their playful nature, they can trace their lineage back to Bullenbeisser and the Old English Bulldog, both of which were known for their strength and tenacity.

4. Whippet

Whippets, often referred to as “the poor man’s racehorse,” are mid-sized breeds known for their gentle, non-aggressive, and loving nature. They were originally bred for chasing rabbits, which is evident in their sleek, athletic build.

Whippets have a unique look that sets them apart from other breeds. Their slim build is complemented by short, smooth fur, and of course, their distinctive rose ears.

These ears along with their range of coat colors like black, white, fawn, and brindle, give them a unique, elegant appearance.

I always think Whippets look so graceful and dignified, except when they have the zoomies of course!

5. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds, despite their name, are a real American breed these days. They were originally bred for herding livestock in the western US, especially during the gold rush era.

Australian Shepherds are versatile working dogs with high energy levels and keen intelligence. I would recommend them for active families who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Physically, they are medium-sized dogs with a double, medium coat and plenty of color variations.

One of their most notable features is their triangular, rose ears, with some individuals even having pointed ears. These moderate dog ears with rounded tips sit high on the head, adding to their alert and agile look.

6. Pitbull

Pitbulls are known for their strength and muscular build. However, their rose ears add a soft touch to their robust appearance.

Their ears showcase the inside, creating a rose-like effect that distinguishes them from other breeds. Sadly, ear cropping can be common with this breed.

Despite some negative perceptions, Pitbulls can make great pets with the right socialization and training. They tend to get on well with children and other pets.

I love this dog breed – they’re so friendly, loving, and fun to be around.

Pitbulls are smart, loyal, and have a unique physical appearance that makes them stand out in a crowd.

7. Pug

Pugs are small dogs with big personalities that make me grin every time I see them!

They are known for their distinctive rose ears, wrinkled face, and curled tail. These features create an adorable appearance that has made them popular among dog lovers worldwide.

Their small stature does not limit their personality. Pugs, one of the smaller dog breeds, are known for their playful and loving nature.

This dog breed is incredibly adaptable, making them a great choice for families of all types and sizes.

Their rose ears add a unique touch to their overall appearance, making them one of the most distinctive dogs with rose ears.

8. Papillon

Papillons are a toy dog breed known for their long silky strands of hair that make them look like a butterfly with spread wings. The unique appearance of the papillon dog breed has made them quite popular among dog enthusiasts.

In addition to their butterfly-like appearance, Papillons also have distinct ears that contribute to their unique look. Their ears can be either rose or straight, adding to their distinctive and playful look.

Papillons are incredibly affectionate and friendly to strangers, making them a versatile breed suitable for various living conditions.

9. Parson Russell Terrier

Parson Russell Terriers are a small, active, and intelligent breed of dog known for being friendly and affectionate. This breed is known for its history as a fox hunter and digger.

The Parson Russell Terrier has a small, muscular body with a thick double coat. This breed usually has white fur. Black or tan patches are often seen on the tail, neck, and ears. Their ears are rose-shaped, adding a distinctive feature to their overall appearance.

These dogs are known for their lively, loving personality. Parson Russell Terriers love to play and are incredibly loyal, making them an excellent choice for families.

They are also quite intelligent and always willing to learn, making them relatively easy to train. These active dogs need lots of exercise so are best suited to owners who live to go on adventures.

10. Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a large, muscular breed known for its intelligence, independence, and loyalty.

Originally bred in Turkey to guard livestock, they are watchful and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.

Anatolian Shepherd dogs have a big, muscular build with a wide chest and powerful legs. Their coat is short and thick, usually white, tan, or black.

One of their most distinctive features is their V-shaped rose ear, giving them an alert and protective look.

Despite their protective nature, these dogs are also known for their bravery and independence.

They can be a bit aggressive with strangers and other dogs, and they have a tendency to bark a lot, which can be both a quality and a challenge for potential owners.

11. Brazilian Terrier

The Brazilian Terrier is a playful and active breed, making them a popular choice for families. They are agile, athletic, and are usually friendly with a bright, alert expression.

Their sleek, short coat usually has white fur with black, brown, or tan markings. In addition to their unique coat, they also have velvety rose ears that give off a terrier vibe.

Despite their playful nature, Brazilian Terriers are also incredibly loyal and make great family pets.

They are smart and always willing to learn, making them relatively easy to train.

12. Shar Pei

Shar Peis are an ancient breed from China. They are known for their prominent features, such as the blue-black tongue, a lot of loose skin around the neck, head, and shoulders, and small eyes set deep into the skull.

They come in two varieties, the “meat-mouth” and the “bone-mouth.” The meat-mouth breed has a big face and floppy ears, whereas the bone-mouth breed has a slimmer face with rose ears that stand out.

The Shar-Pei has a unique personality. They are calm and charming dogs that enjoy lounging in a sunny spot or playing with toys if they are still a pup.

Despite their calm demeanor, Shar Peis are also known for their health issues, such as skin allergies, eye issues, and hip dysplasia, which makes regular vet visits crucial for their well-being.

13. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland sheepdogs are known for their playfulness and intelligence. They are versatile working dogs with high energy levels and intelligence, which makes them popular among those interested in canine sports.

They are medium-sized dogs with a double, medium coat and plenty of color variations, including black, blue, and sable.

One of their most notable features is their triangular, rose ears. These moderate ears with rounded tips sit high on the head, adding to their alert and agile look.

Despite their high energy levels, Shetland Sheepdogs are also known for their gentleness and affection. They are intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a great choice for active families.

14. Border Collie

We’ve all heard of Border Collies, the traditional ‘sheep dog’. They’re another breed known for their intelligence and energy levels.

This dog breed is known for its playfulness and intelligence, which makes them popular among those interested in dog sports.

They are medium-sized dogs with a double coat and plenty of color variations, including black, blue, and sable.

One of their most notable features is their triangular, rose ears. These moderate ears with rounded tips sit high on the head, making them curious and ready to go!

15. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are small but mighty! They are known for their distinctive rose ears, wrinkled face, and curled tail.

These features create an adorable appearance that has made them popular among dog lovers worldwide.

Their small stature does not limit their personality. Frenchies are known for their playful and loving nature.

These dogs are incredibly adaptable, making them a great choice for families of all types and sizes.

Their rose ears add a unique touch to their overall appearance. It’s hard to look at a Frenchie and not find them absolutely adorable!

16. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are sweet and playful dogs that are essentially mini Greyhounds. They are known for their slender, athletic build and their distinctive rose ears.

Despite being active and fast off leash, they’re also happy to snuggle up with their owners on the sofa. Italian Greyhounds are very charming!

These dogs are intelligent, alert, and independent, making them a great choice for active dog owners.

17. Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhounds are large dogs, known for their gentle and polite nature. Known as a giant sighthound, these dogs are bred for their speed, agility, and endurance.

Their rose ears coupled with their gentle nature, make Scottish Deerhounds well loved all over the world.

These dogs are known for their long legs and distinctive rose ears, which contribute to their elegant appearance.

They’re actually among the tallest dog breeds, which is impressive! I had the pleasure of seeing one in person recently at a local show, and it was truly a stunning sight.

18. Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela Mountain Dog is a breed renowned for its guarding abilities. These brave and intelligent dogs are perfect for protecting homesteads and are known for their lloyalty.

Their ears hang down the side of their face like rose petals, making them even more beautiful to look at.

With their strong and dominant qualities, an Estrela Mountain Dog makes an excellent guard dog. I would definitely say that early socialization and training are essential with this breed to prevent unwanted aggression.

Caring for Your Rose Eared Dog

Owning a drop ears dog breed is not just about admiring their unique looks, but also about understanding and meeting their specific care needs. This includes routine grooming to keep their coat in top condition, regular ear cleaning to prevent an ear infection, and consistent training and socialization to ensure well-rounded behavior.

Grooming Essentials

Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a healthy coat and overall appearance in any dogs. This includes brushing their coat a few times a week, bathing them as needed, and keeping their nails trimmed.

For breeds like Estrela Mountain Dogs and Shetland Sheepdogs, their thick coat means they need weekly grooming and an occasional bath, depending on their outdoor activities.

Pugs, on the other hand, need to be groomed on a weekly basis and given a bath with the right shampoo now and then to keep their fur looking shiny and healthy.

Ear Cleaning and Health

Ear health is crucial for dogs with erect ears, such as rose-eared dogs. Because of their unique ear shape, these dogs may require special attention to maintain overall ear health.

Regular ear cleaning can help prevent the buildup of wax and debris and avoid a potential ear infection.

Cleaning your pup’s ears is quite easy. It’s essential to use a dog-safe ear cleaner and avoid using Q-tips.

Follow the instructions on the bottle. Then gently massage their ear. Use a cotton ball to wipe away any wax or debris from the ear canal. Don’t try to remove anything that isn’t visible.

Once your pup’s ears are clean, give them a gentle wipe with a cotton ball or tissue. I highly recommend having a second person on hand if possible, as most dogs don’t like the process!

Training and Socialization

Training and socialization are just as important as physical care for all dogs. It helps them develop into well-behaved, confident, and friendly companions.

It’s important to start socializing your pup from a young age. This helps them grow up to become happy, confident, and capable of adapting to different situations.

Regardless of the breed, positive reinforcement is key in training sessions. It’s important to reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. I know sometimes it can be frustrating when your dog isn’t listening to you, but be consistent and calm and you will soon see results!

Also, expose your pup to various environments, animals, and people to improve their adaptability.

Summary

From bulldogs to Greyhounds rose-eared dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. These breeds are as diverse as they are unique, each with a different story to tell.

Whether you’re looking for a loyal guard dog, an energetic playmate, or a gentle companion, there’s a rose ear breed for you.

So why not consider bringing one of these beautiful, rose-eared companions into your life? They’re sure to add a touch of charm and character to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between button and rose ears?

Button ears fold forwards to cover the entrance to the ear canal, while rose ears fold out to the side leaving the canal semi-exposed.

What dog breeds have button ears?

The Airedale Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Smooth Fox Terrier, Manchester Terrier, and Australian Shepherd are all dog breeds with button ears.

These dogs were bred to hunt or herd livestock, making their ear shape perfect for protecting them in their work.

What makes rose ears in dogs so special?

Rose ears in dogs are quite unique, with a distinct appearance resembling the center of a rose flower – you can actually see the inside of their ear. This makes them special and is seen in several breeds.

What’s the best way to clean my rose eared pup’s ears?

When cleaning your rose ear, it’s best to use a pet-safe ear cleaner and cotton balls or gauze squares instead of Q-tips. Have someone on hand to help hold your dog, and give them lots of treats afterward!

What does the Border Collie look like?

The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog with a double coat and a variety of colors, like black, blue, and sable. Their signature look comes from their triangular, rose ears.