What is the most logical next event?

How to tape up stubborn german shepherd puppy ears
Look at the structure of your puppy's ears.
Simply put, not all german shepherd puppy ears are created equal. For example, thin ears that do not have much cartilage may not be stiff enough to stand upright on their own.
On the contrary, thicker ears probably have enough cartilage and muscle development to stand up more easily. Ears that are widely spaced on your puppy's head may have a harder time standing upright.