10 Black Dogs With Pointy Ears

10 Ear-resistible Black Dogs With Pointy Ears
There is something about black dogs with pointy ears — for many, they stand out as some of the most majestic breeds. From their distinctive alert ears to their glossy black coats, these canines seem to turn heads wherever they go.
And, to show you what we mean, we’ve got 10 awesome examples to share with you. From tiny toy-sized to large and imposing, take a look and take your pick.
Why Choose a Black Dog With Pointy Ears?
One reason people choose black dog breeds with pointy ears is aesthetics. What’s more, black dogs can be easier to spot during the daytime, and many people like the alertness conveyed by those erect ears.
However, there’s a bit more to it than that:
Easier to Clean
Black dogs’s coats are often easier to keep clean — big white fluffy dog owners will know exactly what we’re talking about.
Likewise, pointed ears can also be less fuss to take care of, with studies showing that dogs with pointy ears are less likely to suffer from ear health issues. Although certain breeds are more prone to ear infections, dogs with long, floppy or drop ears, were found to be much more sensitive to ear infections in general.
Hearing Efficiency
Aside from how a dog looks, pointy or upright ears are often thought to have evolved from strong genetics. A pointy ear is said to have a larger surface area exposed to collect sound and bounce it into the pup’s ear canal for a better hearing range.
Practical for Working Dogs
Some hunting or herding breeds would be hampered by long droopy ears, which could get caught up in the undergrowth when out on a hunt. And, in almost all roles, large black dog pointy ears come across as being more assertive. For working dogs, especially guard dogs, this can be an advantage.
Our 10 Favorite Black Dog Breeds With Pointy Ears
Black dogs with pointy ears come from all walkies of life and in all sizes. Here are 10 of our favorite tailwaggers with upright, or prick ears, to suit almost everyone.
1. German Shepherd

Height: 22 - 26 inches
Weight: 50 - 90 pounds
German Shepherds are large black dogs with pointy ears with an incredible intelligence level. They’re trainable for many tasks, which is why they make brilliant military or police companion dogs. A confident canine, combined with those pointy ears and impressive build, the GSD always looks ready for action.
Although you may be more familiar with the combination of brown and black coats, solid black German Shepherd Dogs do exist. They share the same pointy ears as their multi-colored counterparts, making them look alert at all times.
In addition to being excellent working dogs, German Shepherds are great family pets. They can be patient with children, bond well with the whole family, and be calm, loyal, and affectionate when trained to a high standard.
2. Doberman Pinscher

Height: 24 - 28 inches
Weight: 60 - 100 pounds
When thinking about big black dogs with pointy ears, you can’t ignore the Doberman Pinscher. This breed was developed in Germany for security and used by tax collectors when recalling their debts. Their pointy ears, however, can often be a point of controversy among dog lovers.
An imposing large dog, the Doberman’s erect ears add to that scary look used to warn off intruders. However, they’re born with floppy ears, which most owners crop to give them their trademark pointy ears and don’t-mess-with-me stature. While legal in the US, cropping is often seen as mutilation and banned in many countries.
Incredibly loyal, obedient, and intelligent, the Doberman is a powerful breed that shows no fear. Yet, despite their intimidating physical appearance, they’re extremely soft, can make great family pets, and are one of the breeds known as a ‘Velcro dog’ — they simply follow you everywhere!
3. Chinese Crested

Height: 11 - 13 inches
Weight: 8 - 12 pounds
While you’ll find this breed in both hairless and smooth-coated, perhaps the most distinguishing feature of these toy dogs are their crested hairdos with pointy little ears sticking out either side. The erect ears give the Chinese Crested a constantly alert look, although some would say curious or startled.
More commonly seen as a hairless dog with distinctive spotted pink skin, the smooth-coated version comes in many colors, including apricot, blue, chocolate, white, and black. The hairless variety offers the advantage of being odorless, and obviously, shedding isn’t much of a problem.
Often referred to as the ‘powderpuff’ Chinese Crested, there are very few other differences with their naked siblings. Both types are as much fun as they look, playful and very loving. This breed is a great house dog, attentive and in tune with their humans.
4. Siberian Husky

Height: 20 - 23.5 inches
Weight: 35 - 60 pounds
Siberian Huskies are known for their thick, fluffy coats and prominent pointy ears — even that double coat can’t hide them. More famous for gray and white coats, Huskies are dogs that look like wolves although, black Huskies are easier to spot in the snow.
Huskies were originally developed to work in packs and mix well with other dogs but as energetic pups, they often can’t resist chasing smaller animals. Sometimes, their pointy ears will prick up to indicate they’re potentially curious about their surroundings and looking for something to pursue.
Considered a naturally clean breed, Huskies are heavy shedders and ‘blow’ their coats twice a year — so be prepared. And, they will need plenty of time devoted to exercise. However, this breed is affectionate with the whole family, gets on well with children, and will enjoy plenty of playtime, even maybe pulling-a-sled-in-the-snow time.
5. Swedish Lapphund

Height: 16 - 20 inches
Weight: 30 - 45 pounds
A member of the Spitz family, one of the most distinguishing features of the Swedish Lapphund is their large black dog pointy ears. A Nordic breed, the Lapphund is a medium-sized dog with a thick coat that protects them from the cold Arctic weather.
Initially developed as a herding dog of reindeer and other livestock, their black (although sometimes liver too) coat would make them easier to spot in the field during those snow-laden winter months.
Highly intelligent, the Lapphund is an excellent companion with a friendly and outgoing personality. And, while they’re energetic, they’re also happy chilling out with their family when required. Hence, they’re affectionately known as having a Lappie ‘on/off’ switch.
6. Schipperke

Height: 10 - 13 inches
Weight: 10 - 16 pounds
The Schipperke is a small black dog with pointy ears originally bred as a watchdog and ratter on the barges in their native Belgium. They have a very similar shaped head to a German Shepherd, with triangular ears that stand up tall, just much smaller of course.
Super smart, loyal, and loving, with the correct training, the Schipperke makes an enthusiastic companion. Be warned though, you should keep your ‘little captain’ on a leash, they’re known for their instinctive urge to go exploring.
7. Chow Chow

Height: 17 - 20 inches
Weight: 45 - 70 pounds
You might have to look a bit closer for the pointy ears of a Chow Chow, but they’re there, I assure you, underneath that lion-like mane of fur. Their distinctive fuzzy little ears give the Chow Chow a teddy-bear-like appearance. Although they’re just as well known for their blue/purple tongues and extra teeth — Chow Chows have two more.
This breed is rough or smooth-coated in blue, red, cinnamon, cream, and of course black. Although their profuse double coats will need regular brushing, Chows are clean pups. They have very little doggy odor and can be as fastidious as cats when it comes to keeping clean.
8. Chihuahua

Height: 5 - 8 inches
Weight: not exceeding 6 pounds
When it comes to a small black dog with pointy ears, they don’t come any smaller than the Chihuahua. Originating from Mexico, this tiny toy breed has pointy ears they would have trouble hiding under most sombreros.
Chihuahuas are well known for their cute little faces and pointy ears, which you may have spotted poking out of the top of a socialite's purse on shopping trips. Their coats come in a variety of colors and patterns, both short and long, although solid black looks truly elegant.
Like all dogs, Chihuahuas can have very different personalities. Some may be outgoing and super friendly, while other pups can be shy and feisty. In particular, their smaller size isn’t best suited to the roughhousing of younger children who may even try pulling at those noticeable perky ears.
9. Pomeranian

Height: 6 - 7 inches
Weight: 3 - 7 pounds
Another little black dog with pointy ears is the Pomeranian. With their fox-like face and triangular ears, their coat is thick and fluffy — like a powder puff.
The Pomeranian shares the luscious mane of the Chow Chow, which can sometimes hide their tiny pointy ears. Admittedly, you’ll more commonly find a Pom with a red or brown coat of fuzz, but they do also exist as an all-black dog.
Like many of the smaller dogs, Pomeranians pack plenty of personality into a pint-sized package. Alert and intelligent, they’re chatty canines, so they make fine mini watchdogs — or perky pets for families with children old enough to distinguish between a toy dog and an actual toy.
10. Scottish Terrier

Height: 10 inches
Weight: 18 - 22 pounds
The Scottie dog is a sturdy, small black dog with pointy ears that was originally bred to hunt vermin on farms in the Highlands of Scotland. Although a smaller breed, their Terrier persistence has earned them the nickname the ‘die-hard.’
An alert canine with bright piercing eyes and erect pointy ears, the Scottie possesses the hallmarks of many British Terriers. With their distinctive beards, longer fur around the legs and lower body, for this breed, a deep black coat is one of the most recognizable.
While friendly and loving with their owners, an aloofness with strangers makes them the ideal watchdog. Scotties also still retain some of that hunting-dog instinct, which can be a problem for the neighbors’ kitty. And, training can be challenging, but they make great companion dogs who enjoy some upbeat play.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve seen, there are plenty of black dog breeds with pointy ears out there. From the strapping German Shepherd to the petite Chihuahua, these pups all have their own stand-outness, just in different-sized packages.
Remember that looks aren’t everything though — it’s essential to weigh up temperament, energy levels, and ultimately whether your potential pooch will fit into your family’s lifestyle.
Yet, black dogs with pointy ears make some of the most extraordinary canine companions for your family. So, which one would you choose?
Black Dogs With Pointy Ears FAQs
Are There Any Black and White Dogs With Pointy Ears?
Many of the breeds we’ve looked at above come in several coat types, including white markings, such as the Siberian Husky or the Chihuahua. But, perhaps the best-known black and white dogs with pointy ears are the Boston Terrier with their unique tuxedo-like coat patterns and the ever-so-smart Border Collie.
Are Any Dogs Ears Unnaturally Pointy?
Some breeds, such as the Doberman Pinscher, Schnauzer, and Great Dane, are born with floppy ears, which are then cropped and maybe splinted to make them pointy and stand upright.
Although this aesthetic surgery is still allowed in the US, in many European countries, like tail docking, the practice is banned.
Do Dogs With Pointy Ears Hear Better?
Erect ears, also called prick ears, are most similar to their genetic predecessors, the wolf. Breeds with these attributes were originally developed to hunt or flush out game. Being more alert to sounds, the dogs would often prick up their ears to pinpoint the location of any nearby quarry.
In theory, ears that stand upright give full access to a dog’s ear canal, allowing the canine to hear without any restrictions. That said, there is little research on the topic, and most experts suggest the advantage over droopy-eared dogs is minimal.
Which Big Black Dogs With Pointy Ears Are Hypoallergenic?
For a black dog with pointy ears suitable for allergy sufferers, you will need to look at some of the smaller breeds, such as the Scottish Terrier. The hairless Chinese Crested is also classed as ‘hypoallergenic.’
How To Take Care of a Dog’s Pointy Ears?
Compared to floppy ears, pointy ears don’t provide the same closed environments beneficial for infections to grow. Yet, the larger open surface is more prone to collecting dirt and debris. As with all dogs, you should regularly check your pooch’s ears and clean them with a damp cloth or a vet-approved ear cleaner.
Particular care should be taken when handling your pup’s pointed ears as the skin may be thinner and more prone to cuts or tears than flapped ears. A regular check for any scratches should be followed with antibiotic treatment if needed.