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Dogs with Floppy Ears: 15 Charming Breeds UK Owners Adore

Jun 10, 2025 FunnyFuzzyUKTeam

Dogs with floppy ears have long charmed people in the UK and beyond. From sweet spaniels to gentle hounds, these floppy-eared dogs bring joy, affection, and a whole lot of character to homes across the country. But why do some dogs have floppy ears, and what makes them so special?

In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind those soft, droopy ears, the science of domestication, and 15 lovely breeds UK owners adore.

Why Do Some Dogs Have Floppy Ears?

Floppy ears didn’t just appear overnight. They’re the result of domestication syndrome, a process that began when humans started selectively breeding wolves for friendlier traits. Over time, domesticated dogs began to look and behave very differently from their wild ancestors.

One major theory comes from research into neural crest cells—a group of stem cells that help form different parts of an animal’s body, like ears, skull shape, and even the adrenal gland, which controls adrenaline. Scientists believe that selecting dogs with less adrenaline and gentler temperaments affected these cells and led to visible changes like droopy ears, shorter snouts, and even curly tails.

In short, dogs with floppy ears are a visible sign of a more relaxed, people-friendly animal. While some wild animals like wolves and foxes have pointy ears, breeds like the basset hound or cocker spaniel were shaped over generations to become ideal companions.

15 Charming Breeds UK Owners Adore

Across the dog world, there are dozens of breeds with floppy ears, each with their own personality, care needs, and charm. Below are 15 of the UK’s most-loved floppy-eared breeds. These popular breeds are adored for good reason—they’re cute, loyal, and packed with personality.

1. Basset Hound

  • Weight: 20–30 kg

  • Height: 28–38 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: France

  • Personality: Calm, loyal, gentle

  • Best For: Families, seniors, quiet homes

Known for their droopy ears and mellow personality, the basset hound is a low energy breed ideal for those who enjoy short walks and lots of cuddles. Originally bred as a hunting dog, its incredible sense of smell helps it track prey close to the ground. These floppy eared dogs need regular ear care to avoid ear infections.

2. English Cocker Spaniel

  • Weight: 12–16 kg

  • Height: 38–41 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–15 years

  • Country of Origin: United Kingdom

  • Personality: Energetic, affectionate, eager to please

  • Best For: Active families, homes with children

A cheerful and spunky breed, the English Cocker Spaniel is among the most popular dog breeds in the UK. With floppy ears and a soft, feathered coat, they are often seen as fun-loving sweethearts. These dogs were originally bred for bird flushing and need daily exercise and mental stimulation.

3. Beagle

  • Weight: 9–11 kg

  • Height: 33–41 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–15 years

  • Country of Origin: United Kingdom

  • Personality: Curious, sociable, playful

  • Best For: Families, countryside homes, scent work

Beagles love to follow scents and are classic hunting dogs. Their floppy ears help trap smells around their nose. These small dogs are very social but can become mischievous without mental stimulation. Due to their high prey drives, a secure garden is a must.

4. Golden Retriever

  • Weight: 25–34 kg

  • Height: 51–61 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: Scotland, UK

  • Personality: Gentle, intelligent, dependable

  • Best For: Large families, therapy work, first-time owners

One of the world’s most popular breeds, the golden retriever is a loyal companion known for its kindness and floppy ears. Originally bred to retrieve game from water, they now serve as excellent family dogs and assistance animals. They do best with regular walks and plenty of affection.

5. Afghan Hound

  • Weight: 23–27 kg

  • Height: 60–74 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–14 years

  • Country of Origin: Afghanistan

  • Personality: Dignified, independent, sensitive

  • Best For: Experienced owners, rural homes

The afghan hound is among the most ancient dog breeds, known for its elegant stride and flowing long ears. Once used to chase game across mountains, today these gentle giants are admired for their style and grace. Though a bit aloof, they bond deeply with their chosen humans.

6. Shih Tzu

  • Weight: 4–7 kg

  • Height: 20–28 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–16 years

  • Country of Origin: China/Tibet

  • Personality: Loving, alert, friendly

  • Best For: Seniors, flat living, low-exercise households

This small dog with floppy ears and a big heart was once pampered by Chinese emperors. The shih tzu is a low energy breed that thrives on attention and companionship. Ideal for domesticated dog lovers who want a cuddly lapdog that still enjoys some playful time.

7. Irish Setter

  • Weight: 27–32 kg

  • Height: 58–67 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–15 years

  • Country of Origin: Ireland

  • Personality: Friendly, outgoing, lively

  • Best For: Active families, dog sports

With its fiery red coat and long, floppy ears, the Irish Setter is a head-turner. A born hunting dog, it needs lots of daily exercise and makes a fantastic companion for energetic owners. They are known for being both extremely intelligent and eager to please.

8. Gordon Setter

  • Weight: 25–36 kg

  • Height: 58–69 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: Scotland

  • Personality: Devoted, bold, calm

  • Best For: Rural homes, long walks

This loyal breed has a bold spirit and beautiful feathered ears. The gordon setter is a strong, slow-maturing dog that forms deep bonds with its family. Like many dog breeds with a sporting background, they need structured exercise and mental work.

9. Dachshund

  • Weight: 7–15 kg (depending on type)

  • Height: 13–23 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–16 years

  • Country of Origin: Germany

  • Personality: Clever, brave, lively

  • Best For: Small homes, playful households

With its sausage shape and long, floppy ears, the dachshund is both comical and courageous. They were originally bred to go underground after badgers, which explains their name: “badger hound.” Their bold personality needs balance with training and affection.

10. English Setter

  • Weight: 20–36 kg

  • Height: 61–69 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: England

  • Personality: Gentle, sociable, graceful

  • Best For: Patient owners, countryside homes

This elegant ancient dog breed has a gentle nature and lovely speckled coat. The english setter’s soft, long ears require regular cleaning. They are one of the most easy-going breeds with floppy ears, great for relaxed homes that offer outdoor time.

11. Bloodhound

  • Weight: 36–50 kg

  • Height: 58–69 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: Belgium/France

  • Personality: Friendly, focused, laid-back

  • Best For: Experienced handlers, scent work

Famous for their dramatic droopy ears, bloodhounds are scent-tracking masters. Their sense of smell is unmatched, and their ears help trap scent particles near their nose. Despite their size, they are gentle giants, often great with kids and other animals.

12. Weimaraner

  • Weight: 25–40 kg

  • Height: 56–69 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–13 years

  • Country of Origin: Germany

  • Personality: Energetic, protective, intelligent

  • Best For: Active owners, countryside settings

With a ghost-like grey coat and sleek floppy ears, the weimaraner is a loyal, high-drive dog. They were originally bred for large game hunting. Their protective nature and strong energy make them a challenge for beginners but a treasure for experienced owners.

13. Sussex Spaniel

  • Weight: 16–20 kg

  • Height: 33–38 cm

  • Lifespan: 12–15 years

  • Country of Origin: England

  • Personality: Calm, affectionate, alert

  • Best For: Laid-back homes, single-dog households

A low energy breed with short legs and soulful eyes, the sussex spaniel is lesser known but deeply loved. Their long ears frame a square face and their easygoing nature suits relaxed lifestyles. Expect loyalty and deep affection.

14. Otterhound

  • Weight: 30–52 kg

  • Height: 61–70 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–13 years

  • Country of Origin: United Kingdom

  • Personality: Boisterous, friendly, stubborn

  • Best For: Large gardens, adventurous owners

One of Britain’s rarest dog breeds, the otterhound has a scruffy coat and loose, floppy ears. Bred for hunting otters, they are large, independent thinkers who thrive on stimulation and space.

15. Clumber Spaniel

  • Weight: 25–39 kg

  • Height: 43–51 cm

  • Lifespan: 10–12 years

  • Country of Origin: England

  • Personality: Gentle, lazy, loving

  • Best For: Low-activity homes, cuddly companionship

This chunky breed with massive ears and a soft gaze is perfect for quiet homes. The clumber spaniel is a domesticated dog once used by nobility for bird hunting. Today, they enjoy a life of sofa naps and easy walks.

Benefits of Having a Floppy-Eared Dog

Floppy-eared dogs aren’t just cute—they also come with a host of benefits, especially for UK families and individuals seeking calm, loyal pets.

Many breeds with floppy ears are known for being great family dogs. Think of the golden retriever, a loyal breed known for its gentle temperament and love of children. Or the shih tzu, a low energy breed perfect for small flats and city life. Their soft appearance adds to their charm and makes them look more approachable and loving—perfect for homes with kids or older adults.

Dogs with floppy ears are also common among hunting dogs like the beagle or afghan hound. Their long ears help sweep scents toward the nose, giving them an incredible sense of smell—ideal for tracking prey on the ground. Many of these dogs, though once originally bred for work, have become gentle and fun-loving sweethearts in modern households.

For UK pet lovers living in small spaces or seeking excellent family dogs, floppy eared dogs are a smart and cuddly choice.

How to Properly Clean a Dog’s Ears

Dogs with floppy ears need a little extra care—especially when it comes to hygiene. Because their long ears can trap moisture and dirt, they’re more likely to develop ear infections.

Here’s how to clean your dog’s ears safely:

  1. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner – Avoid home remedies unless your vet advises them.

  2. Gently wipe the outer ear – Use a soft cloth or cotton pad. Never insert anything deep into the ear.

  3. Dry thoroughly after baths or walks in the rain – Moisture breeds bacteria.

The UK’s PDSA offers helpful tips on ear care:

Regular cleaning can prevent pain, hearing loss, and the need for antibiotics. It also helps your dog stay happy and healthy—especially for breeds like the english cocker spaniel, basset hound, or gordon setter.

Choosing the Right Floppy-Eared Dog for Your Lifestyle

Not all floppy eared dogs are the same. Some are gentle giants with low energy needs, while others are spunky breeds full of bounce. So how do you choose the right one?

First, consider your living space. If you live in a flat in London, a shih tzu or english cocker spaniel could be perfect. They’re small dogs with sweet personalities. They don’t need loads of daily exercise, but they do love mental stimulation—think puzzle toys and gentle walks.

If you have a house with a garden, you might consider a golden retriever or beagle. These popular dog breeds enjoy running and sniffing around. Beagles love to follow their noses, so they need secure fences and long walks to stay happy.

Families with children often do well with excellent family dogs like the cocker spaniel or golden retriever, thanks to their friendly nature and loyalty. Seniors or those wanting a low energy breed might prefer the basset hound, known for its calm, loving personality.

FAQs

What does it mean when a dog’s ears are floppy?

It means the dog has soft cartilage that doesn’t hold the ears upright. This is common in domesticated dogs due to changes in stem cells and neural crest cells during development. It's linked to domestication syndrome, a theory explaining why dogs have floppy ears and gentle behaviours compared to wild animals like wolves.

What kind of dog has ears that stick up?

Dogs with pointy ears include the German Shepherd, Husky, and Basenji. These breeds often have strong hunting or guarding instincts and were originally bred for work in more rugged settings.

What dog breed is floppy?

Many dog breeds have floppy ears, such as the basset hound, beagle, golden retriever, and english cocker spaniel. Each has different energy levels, grooming needs, and personalities.

What is the name of a floppy-eared dog?

There are many! Some of the most famous names include the afghan hound, cocker spaniel, and shih tzu—all known for their lovely long ears, loyalty, and family-friendly nature.

Conclusion

Floppy eared dogs are more than just adorable—they’re loyal, loving, and full of personality. From ancient hunting dogs like the afghan hound to family favourites like the golden retriever and cocker spaniel, these breeds with floppy ears are a perfect fit for many UK homes.

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