If your dog shakes its head, scratches at an ear or has an unpleasant smell coming from the ear canal, an ear infection is possible—but not the only explanation. Allergies, excess moisture, foreign material and other conditions can cause ear inflammation. Using the wrong drops can make a painful problem worse.
Common warning signs
- Frequent head shaking or scratching at an ear
- Redness, swelling, tenderness or unusual odor
- Dark, yellow or otherwise abnormal ear debris
- Resisting touch around the head
- A new head tilt or loss of balance
Prompt veterinary evaluation is needed if the ear is very painful, swelling develops, the dog becomes ill or symptoms recur. A marked head tilt, inability to balance, unusual eye movements or neurologic changes may indicate deeper ear involvement and require urgent assessment.
What causes ear inflammation in dogs?
Yeast and bacteria can multiply in an inflamed ear, but the underlying trigger is often important. Allergic skin disease, ear shape, moisture, foreign objects and endocrine disorders can contribute. In a dog with repeated infections, simply repeating the previous medication may miss the reason the infection keeps returning.
What happens at the clinic?
The veterinarian uses an otoscope to look into the canal and may examine debris under a microscope to identify yeast, bacteria or parasites. The eardrum’s condition influences the choice of medication and cleaning plan. Severe or chronic cases may require additional testing or referral.
The Merck Veterinary Manual’s canine ear disease review explains why identifying underlying causes is part of successful treatment.
What not to put in the ear
Avoid alcohol, vinegar, peroxide, essential oils, leftover drops and human medications unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Some ingredients may be irritating or harmful when the eardrum is damaged. Cotton swabs pushed deep into the canal may cause injury or pack material farther inward. Ask the clinic whether cleaning is appropriate before the examination.
Can telehealth help?
An online veterinarian may discuss the history and recommend urgency, but cannot see the eardrum or perform ear cytology from a photo. A new or painful ear problem generally needs hands-on examination. Follow prescribed medication and recheck instructions even if the ear looks better within a few days.
Helping prevent recurrence
After the diagnosis is established, ask about allergy management, ear-cleaning frequency and safe grooming or swimming habits for your dog. More frequent cleaning is not always better; some dogs have sensitive ear canals that require an individualized plan.
Source: Merck: otitis externa in dogs.
Educational information only; no veterinary examination or reviewer attribution is implied.
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.