Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the veterinarian, and catching the early signs can make treatment simpler and your dog more comfortable, sooner. Dogs can't tell us their ears hurt, but they give plenty of signals if you know what to watch for. Here's how to recognize the warning signs of an ear infection and when to pick up the phone.
Early Warning Signs
- Head shaking or tilting. Occasional head shaking is normal, but frequent or vigorous shaking, or holding the head tilted to one side, often signals ear discomfort.
- Scratching or pawing at the ears. If your dog is suddenly obsessed with scratching at one or both ears, or rubbing their head along furniture and the floor, pay attention.
- Unusual odour. Healthy ears have little to no smell. A yeasty, musty, or foul odour coming from the ears is one of the most reliable early indicators of a problem.
- Discharge. Normal ear wax is light brown and minimal. Dark brown, yellow, green, or bloody discharge suggests something is wrong.
- Redness and swelling. Lift the ear flap and look: inflamed, red, or swollen skin inside the ear is not normal and often accompanies infection.
- Pain or sensitivity. Yelping, flinching, or pulling away when you touch the ears, or reluctance to have the head handled, points to soreness.
- Behavioural changes. Loss of appetite, lethargy, or unusual irritability can accompany the discomfort of an ear infection.
Dogs at Higher Risk
Dogs with floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Labradors) are more prone to ear issues because their ear canals stay warm and moist with less airflow. Dogs that swim regularly, those with allergies, and dogs with hairy ear canals also face higher risk. If your dog falls into one of these groups, make ear checks a regular habit so you notice changes early.
When to Call Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice any combination of the signs above, especially odour, discharge, or pain. Ear infections don't resolve on their own and tend to worsen with time, sometimes spreading deeper into the ear. This is particularly urgent if your dog is in obvious pain, the ear is very swollen, there's bloody discharge, or your dog seems off balance, as these can indicate a more advanced problem. Don't try to treat a suspected infection with deeper cleaning or home remedies; misdirected treatment can delay proper care.
Prevention Between Visits
While you can't prevent every ear infection, regular maintenance helps. Clean healthy ears on a sensible schedule, dry ears thoroughly after swimming or baths, and manage known allergies with your vet's guidance, since allergies are a frequent underlying driver of recurring ear issues. Keeping the hair around the ear opening trimmed (ask your vet or groomer) can improve airflow for floppy-eared breeds.
What to Expect at the Vet
If you call about ear symptoms, your vet will typically examine the ear canal with an otoscope, take a swab to identify what's causing the problem (yeast, bacteria, mites, or a combination), and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include medicated drops, oral medication, or a professional deep cleaning. Follow the full course of treatment even if your dog seems better after a few days; stopping early is a common reason infections return. Your vet may also schedule a recheck to confirm the infection has fully cleared.
Key Takeaways
- Watch for head shaking, scratching, odour, discharge, redness, and pain, these are the classic signs of ear infection.
- Floppy-eared breeds, swimmers, and allergy-prone dogs are at higher risk.
- Call your vet promptly when signs appear; infections worsen without treatment.
- Regular gentle cleaning of healthy ears and drying after water exposure help with prevention.
Note: This article provides general information only. Consult your veterinarian for specific health concerns.
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