Why Do Yorkie Ears Stand — and Why Some Stay Floppy?
A Gentle Guide for Yorkies, Morkies & Shorkies
One of the most common questions we receive at Lil Luxe Pups is:
“Why are my Yorkie’s ears not standing yet?”
Or…
“Why are my Morkie or Shorkie’s ears floppy?”
The answer is simple. It comes down to genetics, development, and grooming — not failure or flaw.
Let’s gently break it down.
What Is the Natural Ear Standard for a Yorkshire Terrier?
Purebred Yorkshire Terriers are genetically designed to have upright ears. According to the American Kennel Club breed standard for Yorkshire Terriers, the ears should be small, V-shaped, and carried erect.
However, ears do not stand overnight.
Most Yorkie ears begin lifting anywhere between 8-12 weeks and/or during teething 3-6 months old.
Teething often causes temporary ear drops. As the body redirects calcium to developing teeth, ear cartilage can soften briefly.
Once teething finishes, the ears usually rise again naturally.
Patience is key.
Why Do Some Yorkie Ears Stay Floppy?
There are a few reasons a Yorkie’s ears may not stand.
1. Genetics
If both parents have strong ear cartilage, puppies are more likely to develop erect ears.
If ear leather is slightly heavier, the ears may remain partially or fully floppy.
This is genetic. It is not something you did wrong.
2. Cartilage Strength
Some puppies simply develop stronger cartilage later.
Small breeds grow at different speeds. Bone, muscle, and cartilage maturation varies by individual.
Time often resolves concerns.
3. Teething Phase
During heavy teething, many Yorkie ears fall temporarily.
This phase can make owners nervous, but it is very common.
After teething concludes, ears often perk back up.
What About Morkies and Shorkies?
This is where things shift.
Morkies (Maltese × Yorkie) and Shorkies (Shih Tzu × Yorkie) inherit genes from floppy-eared breeds.
Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu naturally have drop ears.
Because of this:
• Many Morkies have floppy ears
• Many Shorkies have floppy ears
• Some may have one up and one down
• Some may partially stand
All variations are normal.
Floppy ears in designer breeds are not defects. They are inherited traits.
Does Grooming Affect Ear Position?
Yes — significantly.
Yorkie ears are small and light. If excessive hair is left on the ear, the added weight can pull cartilage downward.
Lightly trimming the ear hair can reduce weight and allow ears to stand more easily.
This is why ear appearance may change after grooming.
However, trimming alone cannot override genetics.
If you’re navigating multiple development stages at once, you may also find our guide on Potty Training Yorkies, Morkies & Shorkies the Gentle Way helpful as your puppy matures:
Small breed development happens in phases, and understanding the full picture creates confidence.
Should You Tape Yorkie Ears?
Some breeders recommend ear taping to encourage standing.
At Lil Luxe Pups, we believe ears should develop naturally whenever possible.
In most cases:
• Healthy cartilage + time = natural standing
• Taping is unnecessary
• Genetics ultimately determine outcome
If ears remain floppy but your puppy is healthy, this is purely cosmetic.
And let’s be honest — floppy ears are adorable.
Does Ear Type Affect Health?
No.
Whether ears stand or flop does not impact overall health.
However, floppy ears may require slightly more attention to cleaning because airflow is reduced.
Routine ear care includes:
• Weekly checks
• Gentle cleaning as needed
• Monitoring for redness or odor
Healthy ears matter more than upright ears.
One Ear Up, One Ear Down?
This is extremely common during development.
Cartilage strengthens unevenly at times. Many puppies go through a “one up, one down” stage.
This often resolves naturally.
Even if it does not, it remains completely harmless.
Final Thoughts from Lil Luxe Pups
Ears are part of your puppy’s personality and charm.
Whether your Yorkie’s ears stand tall or your Morkie’s ears stay soft and floppy, your puppy is exactly as they were meant to be.
Genetics determine structure. Grooming can influence weight. Time supports development.
But love? Love remains constant.
At Lil Luxe Pups, we celebrate every ear — upright, floppy, or somewhere in between.
Because perfection looks different on every little face.
