13 Dog breeds with (naturally) pointy ears

Perhaps you’re a pet parent who is looking for the type of dog that is all ears? Or maybe you’re simply a fan of dogs that look like foxes? Whatever it may be, dogs with pointy ears all seem to have their own punchy, paw-some personality. Today, we have a selection of 15 of the most distinctive pointy eared dogs around.

These pup breeds are all natural when it comes to pointy ears. So if you’re seeking a paw pal born with upright ears, have a look at our choices below…

13 breeds dogs with pointy ears

Let’s kickstart our list with one of the largest but big-hearted pointy-eared dogs around…

1. Boston Terrier

With long legs and tall upright ears, the Boston Terrier is the tallest of terriers on our list. Don’t let their gangly appearance fool you, these fur monsters are considered to be one of the laziest dog breeds. This makes them great for smaller living spaces and excellent with children.

2. German Shepherd

For anyone who has not had the privilege of meeting a German Shepherd puppy, all you need to know is that they’re all ears. Literally. The German Shepherd is born with huge upright ears which takes them about a year to grow into! Loyal, intelligent, and gentle, they have been a favorite with families for decades.

3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Possibly the most regal of breeds on our list, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is just as recognizable for its pointy ears as its short legs and famous butt wiggle. These pointy-eared dogs were a favorite of the late Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, and remain a national symbol of the UK today.

4. West Highland Terrier

They may be considered a small dog breed, but the West Highland Terrier is a tough cookie. Their natural pointy ears, thick coats, and tough paws make them excellent walking dogs through cold and damp terrain. Found in either all-black or all-white, the West Highland Terrier is not short on paw-seranlity or pointed ears.

5. Australian Cattle Dog

Loyal, bold, and tenacious, the Australian Cattle Dog is as out-back a dog as their name suggests. Bred to herd cattle across the dusty bushlands of Australia, as dog breeds with pointy ears go, these bark buddies are incredibly friendly. Working dogs require lots of exercise and playtime throughout the day, so a fellow fitness enthusiast is ideal for the caring canines.

6. Pharaoh Hound

When looking for dogs with pointy ears, arguably they may not come as pointy-eared as the Pharaoh Hound. As you may have guessed, this dog originated in Egypt and is one of the earliest known domesticated dog breeds. Favored by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, they are calm and clever with almost perfectly triangular ears!

7. Shiba Inu

Let’s now head to Japan where we will find a fluffy friend often mistaken for a giant fox. With almost perfectly pointed ears, the Shiba Inu’s coat and long snout mean it would not look out of place wandering woodland areas. However, these balls of energy would much rather hang out with their humans than wander off, and make ideal doggos for small families and couples. If you're thinking about adopting a Shiba Inu yourself, explore our blog where we dive into all things Shiba Inu costs.

8. Belgian Malinois

Often confused with the German Shepherd, the Belgian Malinois has a similar body shape, long-nosed snout (or snoot), and, of course, the classic pointy ears. With darker, shorter coats and slightly more muscular physique than the German Shepherd, this type of dog is fast becoming a new family favorite due to their intelligence, easy-going nature, and love of humans.

9. Samoyed

The Samoyed is the first of our Artic working dogs; for whatever reason, they all seem to sport the same natural pointy ears. Bred as a sled and companion dog in the Artic circle, the Samoyed is also known for its ‘Sammy Smile’, AKA the face it makes when it pants. Despite being hardy creatures, their mounds of fluff require daily brushing and maintenance. Be warned, when it comes to shedding season, your home will quickly become its winter wonderland!

10. Rat Terrier

Have you ever seen a dog with pointy ears larger than its head? Let us introduce the Rat Terrier. Originally from America, these pointy-eared dogs were used to chase away rats on farms. As Terriers, they are active, hyper, and need plenty of space to run around.

11. Swedish Vallhund

Potentially the least well-known type of dog on our pointy-eared dog list, the Swedish Vallhund looks like a cross between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a German Shepherd. They are their outright breed used as herding dogs in Sweden and Norway. They are fantastic with children and are known for having very patient temperaments.

12. Alaskan Malamute

Another ball of fluff Artic working dog, the Alaskan Malamute is still used to pull sleds in the Arctic circle. Although strong and the size of a small bear, they are, in fact, very gentle dogs who mix well with other snuffles and humans. Like the Samoyed, they require daily brushing and regular grooming to maintain the magnificent lion manes.

13. Siberian Husky

From afar, these Artic angels are often mistaken for the Alaskan Malamute. However, as they would gladly tell you if they could, the Siberian Husky is its dog breed. Smart yet silly, the Husky has enormous energy and can easily keep going from sunrise to sunset. Pet parents need to be able to make time for lengthy daily walks.

If you’re a fan of pointy eared dogs, we hope this has offered some future pet purchase inspiration. Are there any breeds we missed off our list? If so, members can head to our Community Forum to voice their suggestions and thoughts. For those looking to find a new pal for their own pointy eared pup, check out the latest dog sitters available in your area.