Ear Infections in Dogs

image of Veterinarian cleaning dog ears

Ear Infections in Dogs: Signs, Treatment & When to See a Vet

Head shaking? Scratching? A bad ear odor? Untreated ear infections can lead to pain, ruptured eardrums, and even hearing loss. We’re open 7 days a week, 6:30am–6:30pm to help.

Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections in dogs are painful and can quickly worsen without care. Many dogs will shake their heads and scratch their ears trying to relieve the discomfort. The ears often become red and inflamed and develop an offensive odor. A black or yellowish discharge commonly occurs.
In chronic cases, the ears may appear crusty or thickened, and the ear canals often become narrowed (stenotic) due to chronic inflammation.

Infection of the external ear canal (outer ear infection) is called otitis externa and is one of the most common infections seen in dogs. Breeds with large, floppy, or hairy ears—such as Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Poodles, and Old English Sheepdogs—are more prone to ear infections, though any breed can be affected.

Types of Ear Infections

  • Otitis Externa – Inflammation affects the layer of cells lining the external portion of the ear canal.
  • Otitis Media – Infection of the middle ear, which can spread to the inner ear.
  • Otitis Interna – Infections of the inner ear canal that may result in deafness, facial paralysis, or balance issues.

Because these infections can progress from mild irritation to serious complications, it’s important to seek early veterinary treatment and ongoing prevention.

What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?

Dogs’ L-shaped ear canals can trap moisture and debris. Most infections are caused by bacteria or yeast in the outer ear canal. In puppies, ear mites can play a role.
Recurrent infections often point to underlying issues such as:

  • Allergies (environmental or food-related)
  • Chronic moisture from swimming or bathing
  • Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism)
  • Foreign bodies, polyps, or tumors

What Are Ear Mites?

Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis) are small arthropods that live in the ears of animals and can cause intense itching, scratching, and dark, crumbly ear discharge.
They are more common in puppies and kittens, but adult dogs can become infected through contact with other animals. Ear mite infestations often lead to secondary bacterial or yeast infections, making veterinary diagnosis and treatment essential.

Common Signs of Ear Infections in Dogs

  • Head shaking or ear scratching
  • Redness or swelling of the ear canal
  • Brown/yellow discharge or crusting
  • Bad odor
  • Pain when the ear is touched
  • Head tilt or balance issues
  • Hearing changes
  • Crusting or scabs in or around the ear

For additional information, see the AVMA’s overview on ear infections in dogs.

How Are Dog Ear Infections Diagnosed and Treated?

Veterinarians use otoscopic and microscopic examinations to diagnose ear infections and determine treatment.
If there’s a foreign body, wax plug, or parasite, it will be removed. Some dogs may require sedation for a thorough cleaning or flushing of the ear canal. Because multiple organisms (bacteria, yeast, or mites) can be present, treatment often requires targeted or broad-spectrum medication.

An important part of treatment is identifying underlying disease. Many dogs with chronic or recurrent infections have allergies or low thyroid function. Treating these conditions is key to preventing future infections.

Why You Shouldn’t Self-Treat

There are several kinds of bacteria and fungi that can cause ear infections. Without knowing which organism is involved, it’s impossible to choose the right medication.
Some infections may involve a ruptured eardrum — applying medication without a veterinary exam could cause hearing loss. That’s why a professional exam is essential before any ear treatment.

What Happens If an Ear Infection Isn’t Treated?

Untreated ear infections can lead to severe pain and complications such as:

  • Aural hematomas – Broken blood vessels in the ear flap from scratching and shaking
  • Ruptured eardrum – Can cause inner ear infection or permanent hearing loss
  • Ear canal stenosis – Chronic swelling can close the ear canal, requiring surgery

If the canal closes (hyperplasia or stenosis), medications can’t reach the infection.
Some dogs may need surgery such as a lateral ear resection or, in severe cases, total ear canal ablation.

Prevention & Safe Ear Cleaning at Home

Dogs prone to ear problems do best with a tailored maintenance plan. After treatment, follow your vet’s recommendations, which may include:

  • Keeping ears dry after swimming or bathing
  • Using a vet-recommended ear cleaner on a schedule
  • Managing allergies (diet trials or medications)
  • Scheduling periodic rechecks

For professional guidelines, see the AAHA Otitis Guidelines (PDF).

Ear Infection? Click to Make an Appointment

Don’t wait — ear infections are painful and can lead to serious complications if untreated. We’re here to help your pet feel better fast.
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