Ear infections can go from “a little itchy” to very painful quickly. If your dog is shaking their head, scratching, or has an odor from the ears, it’s time to pay attention.
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Common signs of an ear infection
- Head shaking or ear scratching
- Redness, swelling, or heat in the ear
- Odor (yeasty or foul smell)
- Discharge (brown, yellow, or bloody)
- Pain when touched
- One ear held lower than normal
If your dog seems very painful or has a head tilt, call promptly.
Why dogs get ear infections
Many ear infections are caused by:
- Yeast or bacteria overgrowth
- Moisture (swimming/bathing)
- Allergies (very common)
- Foreign material (foxtails, debris)
- Ear mites (more common in puppies)
Why DIY treatment can make it worse
Using the wrong cleaner or medication can:
- Irritate the ear canal
- Mask symptoms while the infection worsens
- Be dangerous if the eardrum is damaged
It’s safest to have your vet examine the ear first.
What your vet may do
- Examine the ear canal and eardrum
- Take a sample to identify yeast/bacteria
- Recommend prescription treatment
- Provide a safe cleaning plan
- Address underlying causes (like allergies)
Prevention tips
- Dry ears well after baths/swimming
- Use vet-recommended cleaners if appropriate
- Manage allergies proactively
- Bring your dog in early when symptoms start
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