What Does It Mean When a Dog Pins Only One Ear Back?

A pinned, or flattened ear can indicate a range of emotions in a dog, from mild concern or curiosity, to fear or aggression. If your dog pins one ear back without any other sign of distress, such as cowering or aggression, it is likely out of attention or interest in something. For instance, if your dog pins one ear back while gazing at a passerby, it may be trying to take in as much information as possible about the person. Conversely, if your dog pins one ear while also expressing other defensive or offensive body language, such as a raised hackles or a curled lip, it may be preparing for a conflict. In this situation, it is best to intervene and remove your dog from the situation.