There’s just no doubt about it, but dogs with pointy and perky ears are super cute. In the bygone days, the ancestors of these dogs used their pointy ears to hunt and protect themselves from danger. However, modern dog breeds don’t need their perky, pointy ears for survival.
But perky ears undoubtedly give a pooch a surprised, excited expression that you can’t help but adore. In our article, we will look at some amazing dog breeds with pointy ears you just cannot resist.
West Highland White Terrier
With cute, pointy ears, the West Highland White Terrier, also known as Westie is a mid-sized dog. The adorable Westie is intelligent, confident and entertaining. This small-statured dog is sturdy and one of the most popular small terrier breeds.
Appearance
Around 10 to 11 inches tall and 15 to 20 lb in weight, Westies are stocky but agile and fast dogs. Characterized by their harsh, dense white coats that are quite hard to the touch, Westies have a compact body and a tail that is shaped like a carrot.
Westies have pointy ears that stand up like pyramids on top of their head, with a wide base and shorter apex and the shape allows the dog to hear rodents scratching even behind the wall.
Temperament
Bred as hunting dogs to hunt rodents and rats, Westies are hardy pooches that are active and alert. These dogs are very intelligent and inquisitive, but stubborn, making them quite difficult to train.
When trained properly, Westies can become extremely well-behaved pets. These curious dogs love to dig holes and tend to bark a lot. In general, Westies are loyal, loving and self-confident dogs.
Siberian Husky
Bred to work in packs and pull loads across frozen snow-covered terrain, the Siberian Husky is a compact, medium-sized sled dog that has a thick coat. These working dogs are known for their speed, agility and endurance, which makes them perfect for expeditions. The northern breed is dignified, easy going and friendly and they love family life.
Appearance
Weighing between 35 to 60 lb and a height between 20 to 23.5 inches, Siberian Huskies are graceful dogs. They have almond-shaped eyes that are either blue or brown (or sometimes one of each color), these dogs have a mischievous expression. These powerful dogs are surprisingly agile and nimble footed. Siberian Huskies have wolf-like triangular erect and pointy ears.
Temperament
Siberian Huskies are extremely friendly and are very good with kids, making them great family pets, but they are not very good with smaller animals and love chasing them.
However, the friendliness of the breed also makes Siberian Huskies ineffective as guard dogs. These dogs are extremely energetic and need plenty of space to run around.
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are sturdy dogs that are very intelligent and active. Also known as the Queensland Heeler or Blue Heeler, Australian Cattle Dogs are related to the wild Dingo dogs of Australia. Bred originally by Australian settlers to herd cattle and even today, these dogs are still used for herding.
Appearance
Around 17 to 20 inches tall and weighing around 35 to 50 lb, Australian Cattle Dogs are hard-muscled and sturdy dogs known for their agility and strength. Born with a white-colored coat, the Australian Cattle Dog’s coat turns red or blue-gray with speckling or mottling patterns. The dog has a short coat and bat-like ears that stand upright like that of a Corgi.
Temperament
Australian Cattle Dogs are smart, alert and loyal, but wary of strangers, making them good guard dogs. They are hardworking dogs excelling in chasing, hunting and herding livestock.
The fluid gait of the breed along with the endless energy makes these dogs great running partners. If not challenged, Australian Cattle Dogs can get bored easily and get into mischief.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are large-sized dogs with a noble bearing. These intelligent, loyal and hardworking dogs are extremely versatile. Bred as herding dogs, this breed is well suited to work as guard dogs, as military and police dogs and as guide dogs for the blind.
Appearance
Around 22 to 26 inches in height and weighing around 50 to 90 lb, German Shepherds are agile and strong, with an athletic, muscular and streamlined build. They have smooth and graceful curves and a natural gait that can pick up to reach great speeds. German Shepherds have pointy, erect triangle-shaped ears that add to their character.
Temperament
Sharing its ancestry with the Belgian Shepherd and Dutch Shepherd, German Shepherds are highly intelligent, courageous, confident and loyal and in the right home can be the best companions. German Shepherds are excellent guardians and gentle as family pets but can be wary of strangers. They are also quite territorial about their space and home. They are willing to learn and are on their best behavior when there’s work to be done.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Bred originally to herd sheep, cattle and horses, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an athletic, strong and lively breed that is intelligent, friendly and lovable. These small-sized dogs are eager to learn and can be trained very easily. These dogs make great family pets as they are great with kids and other pets at home.
Appearance
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small-to-medium-sized dog with a sturdy build and short stature. Around 10 to 12 inches tall and weighing around 28 to 20 lb, the breed has a low-set body, stubby tail, large pointy and erect ears and intelligent expression.
The dog has muscular thighs, powerful legs and a deep chest that makes them perfect for hard work. Pembroke Welsh Corgis come in various colors such as fawn, sable, red, black and tan and with/without markings.
Temperament
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are active, intelligent and loyal, which makes them excellent companions. They are bright and sensitive dogs, which respond well to training and love playing with members of the family. Bred originally to herd cattle, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are independent and fearless making them great watchdogs.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are small dogs with a huge personality. This toy breed is one of the oldest breeds in America and has a lineage that can be traced back to pre-Columbian times. These lap dogs or purse dogs are lively and amusing and make excellent companions.
Appearance
Weighing not more than 6 lb and around 5 to 8 inches tall, Chihuahuas are graceful terrier-like dogs. Characterized by the rounded head, which is the hallmark of this breed, Chihuahuas have luminous, expressive eyes and erect ears that make them look super adorable. Chihuahuas come in various coat colors and patterns.
Temperament
Chihuahuas are charming and loyal dogs with a “big dog” attitude. These pooches need obedience training, without which they can become badly behaved and will rule your home like Napoleon. Eager to please, Chihuahuas are very loyal and affectionate. Despite their small size, these pocket pooches can be very fierce and protective.
Samoyed
Bred to hunt, herd reindeer and haul sleds by the Samoyede tribe of northwestern Siberia, Samoyeds are powerful, yet graceful dogs. This working breed is strong-willed but gentle, devoted and friendly family dogs.
Appearance
Samoyeds are substantial dogs that are around 19 to 23.5 inches tall and weight around 35 to 65 lb. These powerful dogs are extremely graceful and have a beautiful all-white coat that is extremely functional and keeps them protected from the brutal cold.
Samoyeds have small, short ears that are wider at the base than the top and an upturned, smiling mouth that prevents them from drooling and forming icicles on the face.
Temperament
Samoyeds are smart, mischievous and social dogs that need a lot of attention and affection. They are intelligent and friendly but with a streak of independence. They love kids and if trained properly get along well with other pets.
They are outgoing, friendly and have an easy-going disposition, which does not make Samoyeds great guard dogs. Bred to live closely with families, Samoyeds love human company and if left alone for long periods, they can turn into nuisance barkers.
Related: 24 Dog Breeds That Are Perfect Outdoors
Akita Inu
Also called the Akita-ken, Great Japanese Dog and Japanese Akita, Akita Inu dogs originated in the North Japan mountains and are among the oldest native dogs of Japan. Originally bred for guarding the royals and nobles in feudal Japan, these dogs have an intimidating presence. They were also used for hunting and tracking bear, boar and deer.
Appearance
Weighing around 70 to 110 lb and a height of 24 to 28 inches, Akita Inus are large and powerful dogs with a noble bearing.
Belonging to the same family as the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky, Akita Inus have wolf-like features and pointy, erect ears.
They have a short, double coat and they come in varying colors like white, fawn, red, brindle and sesame.
Personality
Akita Inus are intelligent, wilful and courageous dogs. They have a calm and quiet demeanor and because they were bred to live, as well as work alone, they are rather reserved around strangers and are not friendly with other animals. They can be quite aggressive towards other pets and are intolerant of same-sex animals.
They can attack other animals unexpectedly and ferociously, which is why it is a good idea to keep an Akita Inus as the only pet. These dogs have a complex personality, which makes them challenging to raise, especially for first-time owners.
Belgian Malinois
Belonging to the herding group, the Belgian Malinois is an intelligent, smart and versatile breed.
Obedient and loyal, this hard-working breed forges a long-term bond with his owner. Sleeker than German Shepherds and more agile too, the Belgian Malinois are a firm favorite in the special forces.
Appearance
Belgian Malinois are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 50 to 80 lb.
They are squarely built dogs with a proud bearing. Muscular and strong, Belgian Malinois are quite elegant and are built for hard work.
Belgian Malinois are characterized by their erect ears, curious intelligent brown eyes and black muzzle and their coat colors range from mahogany to rich fawn.
Temperament
Belgian Malinois are smart and eager dogs and have extremely high energy levels. An efficient poacher hunter, Belgian Malinois excels in various activities like herding, tracking, obedience, dock diving, showmanship, etc.
The dog breed is people-oriented and is happiest when exercising alongside their owners.
Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is an ancient breed that can be traced back to 8th century Sweden. This small-sized breed resembles the German Shepherd and is an excellent herding, watching and guarding dog.
Sociable and energetic, Swedish Vallhunds make great family pets.
Appearance
Swedish Vallhunds are rugged cattle dogs that have a small body and stubby legs. They have pointy ears that stand erect on their wedge-shaped heads and they have oval eyes to match.
With a long, sturdy body, dense sable coat and no-frills look, the Swedish Vallhund is built low to the ground, which makes it easy for them to nip at the cattle and avoid their kicks.
Temperament
Swedish Vallhunds are smart dogs known for their cheerful demeanor and zest for life. Eager to please, Swedish Vallhunds have loads of personality, love playing games that stimulate them mentally and are great family pets.
They are very easy to train, especially when you use positive and reward-based methods.
Bull Terrier
Also called the “Frankenweenie”, Bull Terriers are extremely mischievous, comical and playful dogs. These endearing dogs come in regular or miniature size and are devoted, friendly, loyal and protective.
If you’re looking for a lovable and entertaining companion, then nothing can beat the ultimate personality of a Bull Terrier.
Appearance
Bull Terriers are big-boned, robust dogs that have a carefree gait that suggests power and agility.
Characterized by their egg-shaped head, these dogs have small, triangular eyes and erect, pointy ears.
Bull Terriers come in two coat types—white or any other color (solid, brindle striping or with white markings).
Temperament
Bull Terriers are playful and courageous pets. Early socialization and training, plenty of exercise and quality time with owners, make these dogs extremely happy.
Although they are devoted, Bull Terriers can be quite stubborn and can be aggressive with other pets and strangers. Left on their own, they can be quite mischievous.
Overall, Bull Terriers are well-rounded, affectionate dogs that make great family pets.
Related: 19 of the Least Aggressive Dog Breeds
Portuguese Podengo
Intelligent, agile, alert and playful, Portuguese Podengos are originally from Portugal. Belonging to the hound breed, these highly active dogs are very funny and can make you laugh with their comical antics. These hardy dogs are very lively and excel at agility and make excellent companions.
Appearance
Portuguese Podengos come in 3 size categories—Pequeno (small), Medio (medium) and Grande (large).
They have short, smooth coats or long, wired coats. The breed has distinctive characteristics such as a pyramid-shaped head that tapers at the nose, almond-shaped, expressive eyes and large, triangular and pointy ears.
Temperament
Regardless of the size, Portuguese Podengos are hunting dogs that have an affinity for game. Each size category hunts the game according to their size and temperament i.e. Pequeno hunt rabbits, Medio hunt wild boar and rabbits and Grande hunt wild boar and deer.
These dogs are independent by nature and are not very easy to train. Portuguese Podengos are fearless, loyal and make good guard dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier or popularly called “Yorkie” is among the most popular toy dog breeds.
Developed in Yorkshire in the 19th century, this small-sized dog has a huge personality.
With its elegant looks, feisty personality, Yorkshire Terriers make loving companions and their small size makes them perfect for apartment living.
Appearance
One of the smallest dog breeds, Yorkshire Terriers are around 7 to 8 inches tall and weighs around 7 lb. The breed has a compact and well-proportioned body, a small head and medium-length muzzle.
Yorkshire Terriers have V-shaped high set ears that are usually erect. These dainty looking dogs have a silky, straight, floor-length coat that is hypoallergenic and comes in various colors like black, steel blue, gray and tan.
Temperament
Don’t get fooled by the small size and dainty looks of the Yorkshire Terrier. These dogs are feisty, tenacious, brave and even bossy. They are lively, highly energetic and playful dogs. They are excellent watchdogs but can be quite stubborn when it comes to house training. They are quite yappy but can be trained not to bark. Yorkshire Terriers love plenty of attention and hate being alone and if left alone for long, they can suffer from separation anxiety.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are one among the 6 native dog breeds of Japan and are probably the most ancient and smallest breed too. Originally bred as a hunting dog, Shiba Inus were used to hunt wild boar and flush out small game and birds.
Appearance
Shiba Inus are compact, well-muscled dogs. They have an alert expression, a smooth, light and agile gait and red, black and tan or red sesame coloring with white markings which give them a fox-like appearance.
The breed is characterized by their powerfully-built body, thick fur, curled tail and erect ears. They have a double coat with a soft undercoat, which provides excellent insulation and a straight outer coat.
Temperament
Shiba Inus are sturdy dogs and have a confident and bold personality to match. They are independent and headstrong. This hardy breed is always ready for adventure and is very active and lively when outdoors.
Having said that, these dogs are quite calm when indoors, as long as they get their daily dose of exercise. In general, Shiba Inus are good-natured dogs that make them excellent family pets.
Schipperke
With its nickname of “LBD” or little black devil, the Schipperke is a rare breed that has its origins in Belgium. This mischievous little dog is fearless and loyal that will protect you from harm. Extremely playful, with the Schipperke around, there will never be a dull moment.
Appearance
Around 10 to 13 inches tall and weighing around 10 to 16 lb, the Schipperke is a small-size dog that is built for hard work. Their powerfully built neck, jaws and forequarters make these dogs excellent ratters.
The sturdy dog has a silhouette that is accentuated by its thick body and double coat. And, its fox-like face with pointy ears gives the breed a unique look.
Temperament
The Schipperke is an independent and headstrong dog and a bold companion. Energetic and always on the lookout for an adventure, this little dog is pleasant and happy when he gets his daily exercise. Reserved with strangers, the Schipperke is a good alert watchdog.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians or “Poms” are cute, vivacious and lively dogs. Made very popular by the royalty in the 18th century, this breed is very popular even now in modern times.
The tiny, compact size, smiling face and vibrant personality make Pomeranians among the most popular toy breeds in the world.
Appearance
Around 6 to 7 inches tall and weighing around 3 to 7 lb, Pomeranians make excellent pets for apartments and small homes.
The compact toy breed of Nordic descent has a double coat, with an outer coat that is profuse, long and harsh in texture, while the undercoat is short and dense.
The breed is characterized by its heavily feathered tail, alert, inquisitive eyes, pointy ears and an intelligent expression.
Temperament
Pomeranians may be small but think that they are much bigger and may sometimes even challenge dogs much larger than them. While their compact size makes them good apartment dogs, they can bark quite a lot, which may annoy your neighbors. Inquisitive and alert, Poms make great watchdogs. The smart Pomeranian is extremely vivacious and loves plenty of play and exercise.
Keeshond
Known as the Dutch Barge Dog, Keeshonds are medium-sized spitz-type dogs. A native of Holland, they are versatile, all-purpose dogs.
Appearance
Around 17 to 18 inches tall and weighing around 35 to 45 lb, Keeshonds are characterized by their lush, dense coat, cute foxy face, plumed tail and pointy ears.
The breed’s unique characteristic feature is its spectacle-like marking around its eyes, which draws attention to the intelligent, alert expression of the dog.
The sturdy Northern dog has a double coat of black and silver fur consisting of a harsh, long and straight outer coat and a downy undercoat, offering excellent insulation.
Temperament
Keeshonds are essentially friendly dogs and get along well with humans and other dogs. They are lively, outgoing and quite playful. Always alert, they will bark when strangers approach.
They are quick to learn and make excellent watchdogs. Keeshonds thrive on affection and love being a part of the family. They get along very well with children and make great family pets.
Chow Chow
Called Songshi-Quan or “puffy lion dog”, the Chow Chow is a distinctive-looking breed hailing from northern China. This serious-minded, aloof dog breed has a dignified bearing and is indeed a unique breed.
Appearance
Chow Chows are compactly built, powerful dogs that are around 17 to 20 inches tall and weigh around 45 to 70 lb.
The breed has distinctive characteristics such as lion-mane-like ruff around its shoulders and head, deep-set almond-shaped eyes, a stiff walk, blue-black-colored tongue and a snobbish expression.
These dogs are extremely clean, dignified and refined. They usually have smooth or rough coats and come in various colors like blue, red, cream, cinnamon and black.
Temperament
Chow Chows are generally aloof and not very outgoing. They are wary of strangers and can be aggressive towards other dogs. However, they are extremely loyal and devoted to their owners and family members.
These dogs are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent, which may make training them a challenge. They don’t need any special exercise, are very serene and easily adapt to city living.
Alaskan Malamute
A large-size breed, the Alaskan Malamute is a spitz-type dog that was bred originally as a sled dog to haul heavy freights. Built for strength and stamina, these dignified dogs are loyal, affectionate, playful and make great companions.
Appearance
The heavy-duty Alaskan Malamute is a very strong dog that is characterized by its substantial bone structure, erect ears, almond-shaped eyes and a plumed tail that it carries over its back.
Alaskan Malamutes are 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh around 75 to 85 lb. These hard-working dogs have powerful shoulders, a deep chest and a weatherproof coat.
Temperament
Alaskan Malamutes are very affectionate dogs and love cuddling with their human owners. These intelligent dogs need work to prevent them from getting bored. They need consistent leadership, otherwise, they can become a challenge to handle.
The sensitive breed needs loads of companionship and plenty of open space and doesn’t do well in small apartments. Alaskan Malamutes are highly energetic and need plenty of exercise.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking at a toy breed or a working dog, dogs with pointy ears are lovable and fun. While their pointy ears made these breeds superior hunters and herders, now they make them all the more adorable and irresistible.
We hope that after reading our guide on some of the top dog breeds with pointy ears, you will be able to pick one that’s your favorite. Don’t forget to check out our other top list of dog breeds with floppy ears.
