Guide to Dog Ear Infections & Other Ear Problems

Healthy ears help your dog feel good, stay active and stay connected with you. Ears can also reveal early signs of health problems, so regular ear care is part of responsible pet ownership.

When a dog has an ear infection or other ear issue, owners often first notice their dog itching, ear redness, odor, head shaking or a change in behavior.

“When a dog’s ears become itchy, it’s often an early warning sign that something deeper is going on, whether it’s inflammation or changes in the skin’s natural defenses. The sooner we identify the cause, the faster we can relieve the discomfort and protect the ear from more serious problems,” states Purina Veterinarian Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, DVM CCRT CVAT.

When a dog’s ears become itchy, it’s often an early warning sign that something deeper is going on, whether it’s inflammation or changes in the skin’s natural defenses. The sooner we identify the cause, the faster we can relieve the discomfort and protect the ear from more serious problems. 

       – Purina Veterinarian, Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, DVM CCRT CVAT

You’ll learn symptoms, causes, and types of dog ear infections, as well as what to do if your dog keeps scratching their ears and how to treat a dog ear infection.

Introduction: Understanding Dog Ear Problems

Healthy ears are an important part of a dog’s overall health and comfort. Ear problems are very common in dogs and can range from mild irritation to painful infections or more serious conditions affecting hearing and balance.

Dogs are naturally prone to ear problems because their long, L-shaped ear canals can trap dirt, wax, and moisture creating an environment where yeast and bacteria can grow. However, some dogs and dog breeds may be more predisposed to ear disease.¹

Although infections are among the most common ear problems in dogs, conditions such as allergies, ear mites, foreign material, excess wax buildup, inflammation, growths, or trauma can also affect the ears. Recognizing the signs of ear disease early and seeking veterinary care when needed can help prevent discomfort, chronic infections, and long-term damage.

If you’re wondering, “Why does my dog keep scratching his ear?” your dog might have an ear infection or other ear issue. 

Types of Dog Ear Problems & Infections

Dogs can develop several different types of ear problems, ranging from mild inflammation to severe infections affecting balance and hearing. Some conditions are caused by infection, while others are related to allergies, parasites, foreign bodies (grass seeds or foxtails), or chronic inflammation. Some may also be related to other skin conditions in dogs, and the ear infection or problem is just one sign

Otitis Externa (Outer Ear Infection)

Infection of the outer ear canal is the most common condition in dogs. It is often associated with allergies, moisture, trapped debris, or infection.

Common causes include:

• Bacterial infections. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Pseudomonas can overgrow within the ear canal and may become chronic or resistant to treatment if not properly managed.  
• Yeast infections. Yeast organisms such as Malassezia commonly cause dog ear yeast infections, particularly in dogs with allergies or excessive moisture in the ears.
• Ear mites. Ear mites are tiny parasites that live within the ear canal and are more commonly seen in puppies or dogs exposed to infected animals.  
• Ear inflammation due to allergies. Environmental allergies and food allergies are common underlying causes of chronic or recurrent ear inflammation. These types of allergies can cause dog ear scratching and also cause dry skin that itches.

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Middle ear infections occur when infection spreads deeper into the middle ear, often from severe or chronic outer ear infections. These infections can be more difficult to treat and may require advanced testing or longer treatment.

Otitis Interna (Inner Ear Infection)

Inner ear infections are the most severe form of ear disease. These infections can affect structures responsible for balance, hearing, and facial nerve function and require immediate veterinary care.

Other Ear Issues

• Foreign bodies (grass seeds, foxtails). Plant material, dirt, or debris can become trapped in the ear canal and cause irritation and inflammation.  
• Aural hematomas (ear hematomas). An aural hematoma is a pocket of blood that develops within the ear flap, often due to intense head shaking or scratching.  
• Growths, tumors, or polyps. Masses within the ear canal can block airflow, trap debris, and contribute to chronic infections or discomfort.  
• Excessive wax buildup. Some dogs naturally produce more ear wax than others. Excessive buildup can trap moisture and debris, increasing the risk of irritation and infection.

Understanding the different types of ear problems is only part of the picture. Knowing what causes ear infections and irritation in dogs can help owners reduce risk factors, recognize recurring triggers and support long-term ear health. 

Causes of Dog Ear Infections & Problems

How do dogs get ear infections? Many different factors can contribute to dog ear infections and ear problems. In some dogs, multiple causes may be involved at the same time, especially in chronic or recurrent cases.

Common Contributors of Ear Infections in Dogs

• Ear anatomy. A dog’s ear structure can increase the risk of infection. Dogs have an L-shaped ear canal that can trap moisture, debris, and wax deep within the ear. Dogs with floppy ears, narrow ear canals, or excessive hair inside the ears may have reduced airflow, creating an environment where bacteria and yeast can thrive.¹  
• Moisture. Swimming, bathing, humidity, or water trapped in the ears can create a warm and damp environment that encourages the growth of bacteria and yeast. 
• Allergies. Allergic dermatitis conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and food allergy–associated dermatitis, are among the most common underlying causes of recurrent ear infections.
  • Canine atopic dermatitis is a hereditary disease causing itching and inflammation due to multiple skin structure and immune system issues.^2,3
  • Canine atopic dermatitis and food allergies weaken the skin’s natural defenses and increase inflammation within the ear canal, making infections more likely.
  • With allergies, most people think of human symptoms with itchy, watery eyes. While that sometimes happens with dogs, and your veterinarian may recommend giving eye medications o help that, the more common signs are itchy skin and ear infections.
• Parasites. Ear mites are tiny parasites that can cause severe itching, inflammation, and dark discharge, especially in puppies or dogs exposed to infected animals. A dog always scratching their ears might indicate an ear mite infection. 

Underlying Health Conditions

Some medical conditions can increase the risk of chronic or recurrent ear disease, including: 

• Endocrine disorders. Conditions such as hypothyroidism, a disorder where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, can affect skin and ear health making infections more common.
• Autoimmune disorders. Some autoimmune diseases can lead to inflammation or changes within the skin and ears.  
• Immune system deficiencies. Dogs with weakened immune systems may be more prone to persistent or difficult-to-treat infections.  

Other Contributing Factors

• Irritation or trauma. Scratching, injuries, overcleaning, or using harsh cleaning products can damage the delicate skin inside the ear canal and increase the risk of infection.  
• Foreign bodies. Plant material such as grass seeds or foxtails, along with dirt or debris, can become lodged in the ear canal and trigger inflammation or infection.  
• Wax buildup. Excessive ear wax can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacterial or yeast overgrowth.
• Genetics. Certain breeds are naturally more prone to ear infections due to ear shape, skin type, or underlying allergy tendencies. Dogs with floppy ears, narrow ear canals, excessive hair in the ears or allergies, or dogs that swim often may experience more frequent ear problems. Breeds commonly affected include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, Shar-Peis, Springer Spaniels, and other breeds with pendulous or hairy ears.^1,4 

Understanding the causes and risk factors for ear disease is important, but recognizing when something is wrong is just as critical. Knowing what signs to watch for can help you identify dog ear infections and other problems earlier and seek veterinary care before the condition becomes more severe.

Symptoms of Dog Ear Infections & Problems

Dogs with ear problems may show a wide range of signs, from mild itching and irritation to more serious changes that affect balance, hearing, and behavior. Common symptoms include head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, discharge, odor, and sensitivity when the ears are touched. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking veterinary care for your dog can help reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

What to Expect at the Veterinarian

Because many ear conditions can cause similar signs, an accurate diagnosis is important for identifying the underlying cause and selecting the most appropriate treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend a physical examination, otoscopic evaluation of the ear canal, and additional tests, such as ear cytology and culture and sensitivity testing, to determine what is contributing to your dog’s ear problem.

Treatment Options for Dog Ear Infections

Treatment for ear infections depends on the underlying cause, severity, and what part of the ear is affected. Successful management often involves treating the infection itself while also addressing contributing factors, such as allergies, parasites, or other health conditions, that may increase the risk of recurrence. Treatment may include professional ear cleaning, prescription medications, management of underlying conditions, and follow-up care to monitor recovery and long-term ear health.

Prevention of Dog Ear Problems

While not every dog ear problem can be prevented, regular ear care and management of underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk of recurring issues. Routine ear checks, proper cleaning, allergy management, and good nutrition all play a role in supporting long-term ear health. If your dog is prone to ear problems, working with your veterinarian on a plan to help prevent ear problems may help reduce future flare-ups and complications. 

Conclusion: Partnering With Your Vet for Healthy Ears

Ear problems are common in dogs, but many issues respond well when recognized and treated early. Understanding the causes of ear disease, recognizing warning signs, and managing underlying conditions can help reduce the risk of chronic or recurring problems.

You play an important role in your dog’s ear health by monitoring behavior changes, performing regular ear checks, practicing preventive care, and following your veterinarian’s recommendations closely.

By partnering with your veterinarian and combining good nutrition and simple at-home care, you can help keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and free from painful ear problems.

For more expert tips on dog health, explore our other dog skin, fur and ear articles.

Nutrition Science sourced from the Purina Institute.

References

1. Muller and Kirk’s Small Animal Dermatology. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2012:741-767.

2. Eisenschenk MC, et al. Introduction to the ICADA 2023 canine atopic dermatitis pathogenesis review articles and updated definition. Vet Dermatol. 2024;35(3-4).

3. Halliwell R. Revised nomenclature for veterinary allergy. Vet Immunol Immunopathol. 2006;114:207-208.

4. O’Neill DG, et al. Frequency and predisposing factors for canine otitis externa in the UK – a primary veterinary care epidemiological view. Canine Med Genet. 2021;8(7).