Ear infections are among the most common health issues in dogs, yet many pet owners still tend to overlook them. According to veterinary clinic statistics, 20–25% of dogs that come in for regular check-ups show signs of external or middle ear infections at various levels.
However, since dogs can’t “tell us” when they’re feeling itchy, sore, or in pain, identifying symptoms through behavioral changes and visible signs becomes critically important. In this article, Furry will help you understand the 5 most common signs of ear infections in dogs, so you can act early and protect your furry friend’s health.
1. Frequent Ear Scratching or Head Shaking
This is the most obvious and easy-to-spot symptom of an ear infection in dogs. You may notice your dog frequently using their hind leg to scratch their ears—sometimes so aggressively that it causes hair loss or skin damage around the ear area. In addition, dogs may shake their heads repeatedly, as if trying to “shake something out” of their ears.
Some dogs even rub their ears against the wall, furniture, or floor. These behaviors are natural reflexes that help relieve the discomfort, itchiness, or pain coming from deep inside the ear canal. If you notice your dog doing this several times a day, it’s a strong sign that something is wrong.
2. Strong, Unpleasant Odor from the Ears
A healthy dog’s ears should have little to no smell. If you detect a sour, yeasty, moldy, or musty odor coming from your dog’s ears, it’s a clear warning sign that bacteria or yeast may be growing inside.
What makes this symptom tricky is that the smell can gradually intensify over time, even if you’re cleaning the outer ears regularly. This is a subtle but important red flag, as odor typically indicates that the infection has begun to spread deeper into the ear canal.
3. Unusual Discharge: Yellow, Brown, Black, or Mucus-like
If you see yellowish fluid, dark brown wax, or even black debris (similar to coffee grounds) inside your dog’s ears, this is likely a sign of inflammation, wax buildup, or active infection.
The discharge can appear wet and sticky, or dry and crusted. In more advanced cases, it may leak out and stick to the fur around the ear, often accompanied by a foul smell. This symptom means the infection is actively progressing, and if left untreated, it can cause damage to the deeper parts of the ear.
4. Redness, Swelling, or Sensitivity to Touch
Try gently checking your dog’s ears. If you notice the skin is unusually red, swollen, or feels warmer than the surrounding area, that’s a strong indicator of inflammation.
Many dogs will whimper, flinch, pull away, or even growl if you try to touch their ears—signs that the area is painful or hypersensitive. In more serious cases, you might also see small bumps, bleeding, or flaking skin, suggesting that the infection is severe and requires immediate veterinary attention.
5. Head Tilting, Loss of Balance, or Unsteady Walking
This is a more serious and potentially dangerous symptom, which may indicate that the infection has reached the inner ear—the part responsible for the dog’s sense of balance. You might notice your dog tilting their head to one side, wobbling while walking, or even stumbling slightly.
Some dogs also show signs of tremors, disorientation, or blank stares. If you notice any of these signs, do not wait—take your pet to the vet immediately. These could be signs of neurological issues caused by inner ear infection complications.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs above is only the first step in protecting your dog’s ear health. Equally important is knowing how to properly clean and care for your dog’s ears at home to prevent recurring infections—especially for breeds with long, floppy ears or lots of ear hair.
👉 Don’t miss this step-by-step guide from Furry: How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears at Home – 5 Simple Steps Every Pet Parent Should Know.This article walks you through the correct cleaning technique, choosing the right ear care solution, and tips to keep your pup relaxed during the process.
