Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Become a credit card member today!Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!APPLY NOWLearn More About Petco Pay Benefits
My Jack Russell Terrier puppy has pricked ears. Can they be fixed?
Updated on September 23, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | 5 months and 25 days old | 8 lbs
Can you fix pricked ears in a Jack Russell Terrier? I've talked with the breeder and can get pup at discounted price, but their ears were one of my favorite attributes with JRT'S
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 26, 2017
Hi there, Good question!
This condition is called "prick ears". This is usually a permanent condition. The JRTCA considers this to be a conformational fault (i.e., the terrier is not eligible for registration). There is really nothing that can be done to get the ears to fall to their normal position (i.e., folded over).
That being said, "prick ears" during the time period of 3 1/2 to 7 months of age may correct. During these months your Jack Russell Terrier is teething and for unknown reasons during this time frame the ears will do strange things, such as stand straight up, partially up and over to the side, etc.. Don't panic, the ears may go back after the teething process is over.
If it does not correct however, by the time your JRT is about 8 months of age then it is likely going to be a permanent condition. You will just have to wait and see.
Hope this helps. Best wishes.
This condition is called "prick ears". This is usually a permanent condition. The JRTCA considers this to be a conformational fault (i.e., the terrier is not eligible for registration). There is really nothing that can be done to get the ears to fall to their normal position (i.e., folded over).
That being said, "prick ears" during the time period of 3 1/2 to 7 months of age may correct. During these months your Jack Russell Terrier is teething and for unknown reasons during this time frame the ears will do strange things, such as stand straight up, partially up and over to the side, etc.. Don't panic, the ears may go back after the teething process is over.
If it does not correct however, by the time your JRT is about 8 months of age then it is likely going to be a permanent condition. You will just have to wait and see.
Hope this helps. Best wishes.
8Pet Parents found this answer helpful