11 Long-Eared Dog Breeds and Why They’re So Beloved

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By Andrea Wright

Those swoopy, silky ears are more than cute details, they tell stories of history, purpose, and personality. If long-eared dogs make your heart melt, you are in the right place.

From scent-trailing legends to cuddle-ready companions, these breeds charm with looks and lovable quirks. Get ready to meet 11 ear-resistible dogs and discover why their remarkable ears win so many fans.

Basset Hound

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Basset Hounds are the classic poster pups for long, pendulous ears. Those ears sweep the ground to stir up scent, helping them track with legendary precision.

You get soulful eyes, a deep voice, and comic charm wrapped into a mellow, stubborn sweetheart.

Exercise needs are moderate, with slow, steady walks preferred over sprints. Keep an eye on ears and skin folds, since moisture can linger and cause irritation.

Expect drool, snoring, and strong opinions during training, so patience and treats pay off.

Families love their gentle, kid friendly nature and surprising bravery. Despite a laid back vibe, they thrive with enrichment like sniffari walks and puzzle feeders.

If you want a loyal couch buddy with detective skills, this breed delivers in spades.

Cocker Spaniel (American)

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American Cocker Spaniels boast silky, feathered ears that frame their sweet, round faces. Originally bred for upland bird hunting, they balance athleticism with irresistible charm.

Their friendly, merry temperament suits many homes, especially those that enjoy grooming.

Regular brushing prevents tangles and ear checks help avoid infections. These dogs love play sessions, short runs, and training games that tap into their eager to please nature.

You will likely hear compliments on walks, because the glamorous coat and big eyes draw attention.

They can be sensitive, so gentle guidance and positive reinforcement are key. Mental stimulation through scent games or retrieving keeps them fulfilled.

If you want a cheerful companion with movie star ears and a loving heart, the American Cocker fits beautifully.

English Cocker Spaniel

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English Cocker Spaniels carry long, silky ears built for pushing through brush while flushing game. Compared with their American cousins, they have a sportier silhouette and an ever ready zest for adventure.

You get affectionate loyalty, lively curiosity, and a strong work ethic.

Daily exercise keeps them content, from fetch to woodland rambles. Grooming matters, especially trimming feathering and keeping ears clean and dry.

They thrive on training that feels like teamwork, responding enthusiastically to praise and rewards.

At home, they are cuddly and funny, often shadowing you from room to room. Their social nature makes them great with polite kids and friendly dogs.

If your life includes outdoor fun and cozy evenings, this breed’s balanced spirit will shine.

Beagle

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Beagles sport long, velvety ears that funnel scent straight to an exceptional nose. Bred for pack hunting, they are merry, sturdy, and endlessly curious.

Expect a musical voice, enthusiastic sniffing, and a playful streak that keeps you smiling.

They require daily exercise and secure fences, since scent can trump recall. Training works best with treats, variety, and short, upbeat sessions.

Keep ears clean and dry after adventures to reduce infection risks, especially after rain or swims.

At home, Beagles love companionship, games, and puzzle feeders. They do well with families who appreciate their clownish charm and energy.

If you adore cheerful dogs who follow their noses and your heart, a Beagle’s floppy ears and bright spirit deliver.

Bloodhound

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Bloodhounds are the gold standard for long ears and tracking prowess. Those sweeping ears stir scent while wrinkles trap odor, creating astonishing olfactory power.

They are gentle giants with a sensitive soul, yet determined when following a trail.

Training demands patience, consistency, and humor, because that nose can outvote commands. Secure fencing is essential, as a captivating scent becomes their mission.

Health wise, monitor ears, skin folds, and bloat risk, and provide structured exercise to protect joints.

As companions, they are affectionate, goofy, and surprisingly tender with families. They thrive with purposeful work like mantrailing or nose work classes.

If you admire noble looks and a legendary sniffer, the Bloodhound’s ears and heart will impress you daily.

Afghan Hound

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Afghan Hounds captivate with floor length ear feathering and a regal silhouette. Originally bred for rugged terrain, they combine athleticism with fashion runway glamour.

Aloof at times, they still bond deeply, showing affection in their own refined way.

Grooming is a commitment, especially for show coats, but pet trims can simplify life. These sighthounds love sprinting safely in enclosed areas and lounging luxuriously afterward.

Training is about mutual respect, short sessions, and keeping things interesting.

At home, expect calm elegance paired with bursts of joyous zoomies. Their expressive eyes and dramatic ears turn heads everywhere you go.

If you appreciate beauty and independence in equal measure, an Afghan’s floating ears and spirit will enchant you.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavaliers wear plush, feathered ears that frame famously loving expressions. Bred to warm laps in royal courts, they are gentle companions with a cheerful outlook.

Their small size and adaptable nature suit apartments or houses equally well.

Daily walks, playtime, and cuddles keep them thriving. Regular ear care, dental attention, and heart screenings are important for long term health.

Positive training meshes beautifully with their eager, soft hearted demeanor and social personality.

They adore being near you, joining errands, or napping by your feet. With kids and polite pets, they shine as affectionate friends.

If you dream of a cuddly dog with storybook ears and unwavering devotion, the Cavalier is a delight.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds pair long, floppy ears with a bold, comic personality. Originally bred to hunt badgers, their long bodies and courageous attitude are unmistakable.

You get a big dog spirit in a compact, portable package.

Exercise needs are real, but keep jumping limited to protect their backs. Training benefits from consistency, fun games, and rewards that outshine distractions.

Ears collect dust near the ground, so quick cleanings help prevent irritation and infections.

At home, they are loyal watchdogs and spirited playmates. They bond tightly and love burrowing under blankets beside you.

If you want a character with expressive ears and endless spunk, a Dachshund’s charm and confidence will entertain every day.

Irish Setter

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Irish Setters showcase long, silky ears that flutter as they bound across fields. Famous for fiery red coats and open hearted charm, they thrive on activity and connection.

Their joyful energy and social nature make adventures feel brighter.

These athletes need generous exercise, structured play, and mental challenges. Groom the feathering, check ears after romps, and keep training upbeat to harness enthusiasm.

They are sensitive, so kind guidance and consistent routines bring out their best.

At home, expect affectionate cuddles and a bit of clowning. They love being part of everything, from hikes to lazy Sundays.

If you imagine a loyal red shadow with wind tossed ears, the Irish Setter’s spirit and beauty will win you over.

Black and Tan Coonhound

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Black and Tan Coonhounds wear extraordinarily long ears that complement a powerful nose. Bred for nocturnal tracking, they are steady, brave, and surprisingly sweet at home.

Their melodious bay can echo, so neighbors appreciate mindful training and enrichment.

Daily exercise, leash manners, and recall games are essential. Keep ears dry and inspected after damp woods or swims.

These dogs shine with jobs, from scent work to long hikes, channeling energy into purpose.

With families, they are affectionate, goofy, and loyal. Clear rules and positive methods help their independent streak cooperate.

If you want a devoted partner with legendary trailing skills, this breed’s sweeping ears and warm heart make an unforgettable companion.

English Springer Spaniel

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English Springer Spaniels feature long, feathery ears designed for pushing through brush while flushing birds. They are energetic, biddable, and happy, bringing enthusiasm to both field and family life.

You get a partner who loves work and snuggles in equal measure.

Exercise is nonnegotiable, with training games that blend obedience and fetch. Keep ears clean and watch for debris after adventures.

Grooming the coat and trimming feathering keep them tidy without sacrificing classic spaniel flair.

Their friendliness shines with kids and polite dogs, while alertness makes them good watchdogs. Positive, structured training unlocks focus and prevents boredom mischief.

If you seek a versatile companion with athletic grace and fluttering ears, the Springer is a winning choice.

Weimaraner (Longhaired)

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Longhaired Weimaraners bring a silky twist to the breed’s iconic gray, with feathered ears that frame intelligent eyes. Bred as versatile hunting dogs, they combine stamina, speed, and deep devotion.

Expect a velcro like bond that thrives on activity and togetherness.

They need daily workouts, off leash runs in safe areas, and brainy challenges. Grooming is easier than it looks, just regular brushing and consistent ear care.

Training should be upbeat and clear, because they are sensitive and highly perceptive learners.

At home, they shadow you from room to room, always ready for the next adventure. With good outlets, they are affectionate and calm indoors.

If you want sleek athleticism paired with elegant, floating ears, this rare variety is captivating.