A puppy that shakes its head, scratches at one ear or develops an unusual ear odor may have an inflamed ear canal. But redness alone does not show whether the problem is bacteria, yeast, ear mites, a foreign body or another cause. The treatment depends on what a veterinarian finds.
Signs to look for
Watch for head shaking, ear rubbing, pain when the ear is touched, waxy or dark discharge, redness, odor and swelling. Some puppies tilt their heads or avoid being petted near the ear. Seek prompt care if pain is severe, the ear is swollen or bleeding, or the puppy is unwell. Loss of balance, persistent head tilt, marked pain or unusual eye movements can suggest deeper ear involvement and warrant urgent evaluation.
Why the examination matters
Using an otoscope, your veterinarian can look down the ear canal and check whether the eardrum seems intact. A small sample of discharge examined under a microscope (ear cytology) may identify yeast, bacteria or inflammatory cells. Some cases require more testing, especially if ear infections recur. VCA’s ear-infection guide explains why an otoscopic examination and cytology help select treatment.
What you should not do
Do not pour alcohol, vinegar, peroxide, essential oils or human ear medications into an irritated ear. Avoid cotton swabs deep in the canal and do not reuse another pet’s ear drops. Certain medications can be unsafe if the eardrum is damaged. If an ear is extremely painful, stop trying to clean it and let your veterinarian examine it safely.
How treatment works
The veterinarian may prescribe a medicated ear product based on the exam, sometimes along with treatment for parasites, allergies or another underlying problem. Follow the cleaning and dosing instructions exactly, and complete the recommended recheck. Improvement in odor or itching does not guarantee that the infection has cleared. In some cases, the veterinarian will first address swelling and pain to make cleaning or treatment tolerable.
Can a video visit diagnose an ear infection?
A video consultation can help discuss symptoms and urgency, but it cannot check the eardrum or perform cytology. Most puppies with suspected ear infection benefit from an in-person exam before medication is selected. If a puppy also has a skin rash or recurrent itch, that information matters because skin and ear conditions can be linked; our dog skin-rash guide explains several overlapping causes.
Educational information only. Do not administer ear medicines without veterinary direction.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.