A dog suddenly shaking its head, scratching one ear constantly, or pulling away when someone touches its head may be experiencing more than a temporary itch. Ear problems are common in dogs, and when inflammation or infection develops, the discomfort can become significant.
For dog owners throughout Ottawa, Blackburn Hamlet, Orléans, Gloucester, Navan, Vanier, and Rockcliffe, recognizing the early signs of an ear problem can make an important difference. Dogs cannot explain that an ear feels itchy, painful, or blocked, so owners often need to rely on changes in behaviour, smell, appearance, and discharge.
One of the most common conditions is otitis externa, inflammation of the external ear canal. Typical signs include head shaking, scratching, pain, redness, swelling, odour, and abnormal discharge. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
The important thing for owners to understand is that an ear infection is not always simply a matter of bacteria in the ear. Allergies, yeast, parasites, foreign material, moisture, and the shape of a dog’s ears can all contribute to ear disease. Finding the underlying cause can be just as important as treating the current infection.
What Is a Dog Ear Infection?
A dog’s ear is more complex than the visible ear flap.
Ear disease can affect different areas:
Otitis externa involves inflammation of the external ear canal.
Otitis media affects the middle ear.
Otitis interna involves the inner ear.
External ear inflammation is particularly common in dogs. If disease becomes chronic or progresses deeper into the ear, middle or inner ear involvement can become more serious and may affect balance, hearing, and neurological function. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
This is one reason persistent ear problems should not simply be ignored.
1. Frequent Head Shaking
One of the most recognizable signs of an ear problem is repeated head shaking.
An occasional shake is normal.
A dog that suddenly begins vigorously shaking its head throughout the day may be trying to relieve itching, pressure, irritation, or pain inside the ear.
Owners in Ottawa or Blackburn Hamlet may first notice the behaviour after a walk, bath, grooming appointment, or swim. In other cases, there is no obvious trigger.
Persistent head shaking is worth investigating, particularly when accompanied by scratching, redness, odour, or discharge. (Cornell Vet School)
2. Scratching the Ears
Dogs naturally scratch occasionally.
Constant ear scratching is different.
A dog may repeatedly use a hind leg to scratch one ear or rub the side of its head against carpeting, furniture, or the ground.
Frequent scratching can indicate inflammation or itching caused by several possible problems.
Cornell notes that ear problems can result from causes ranging from allergies and parasites to foreign bodies and secondary bacterial or yeast infections. (Cornell Vet School)
Repeated scratching can also create additional problems by damaging the skin around the ear.
3. Redness Inside the Ear
A healthy dog’s ear should not suddenly become intensely red, swollen, or inflamed.
Redness can indicate irritation and inflammation within the ear.
Owners in Orléans, Gloucester, Navan, Vanier, Rockcliffe, Blackburn Hamlet, and elsewhere in Ottawa can make ear observation part of normal grooming.
Knowing what a dog’s healthy ears normally look like makes changes much easier to recognize.
4. An Unpleasant Smell
Healthy ears generally should not produce a strong, unpleasant odour.
If an owner suddenly notices a significant smell coming from one or both ears, something may have changed inside the ear canal.
Odour is commonly reported with otitis externa and may occur alongside discharge, redness, itching, and discomfort. (Cornell Vet School)
Trying to cover up the smell or repeatedly cleaning the ear without determining the cause may delay appropriate treatment.
5. Ear Discharge or Excessive Wax
Another common warning sign is a change in what is visible inside the ear.
Owners might notice:
- Dark discharge
- Increased wax
- Moist debris
- Pus-like material
- Unusual buildup
The appearance of the discharge alone does not reliably identify the cause.
A veterinarian can examine material from the ear under a microscope to look for yeast, bacteria, inflammatory cells, or parasites and use those findings to guide treatment. (Cornell Vet School)
6. Pain When the Ear Is Touched
Ear infections can hurt.
A normally affectionate dog may suddenly move away when someone touches the ear or side of the head.
Other signs of discomfort can include:
- Whimpering
- Becoming defensive
- Avoiding head contact
- Holding one ear differently
- Becoming unusually irritable
- Refusing ear cleaning
Pain or sensitivity when the head or ears are touched is a recognized sign of ear inflammation. (Merck Animal Health Canada)
A painful ear should be handled gently.
7. Head Tilt
A persistent head tilt deserves attention.
Dogs experiencing significant ear discomfort may hold their head toward one side. More concerningly, middle or inner ear disease can also produce a head tilt and problems with balance.
Inner ear involvement may cause difficulty standing or walking, poor coordination, or abnormal eye movements. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
A dog that suddenly develops a head tilt alongside balance problems should receive prompt veterinary attention.
What Causes Ear Infections in Dogs?
There is no single cause.
A dog’s ear problem may involve several factors at the same time.
For example, allergies may create inflammation inside the ear canal. That altered environment may then allow yeast or bacteria to multiply, producing a secondary infection.
Effective treatment therefore involves more than simply making the visible symptoms disappear.
Allergies Are an Important Cause
Allergic disease is one of the most important underlying causes of recurrent ear problems.
Dogs with environmental or food related allergies can develop inflammation involving the skin and ears. Secondary bacterial or yeast infections may then develop. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
Owners may notice that the dog also:
- Licks its paws
- Scratches other areas
- Has recurring skin problems
- Develops repeated ear infections
- Experiences seasonal flare ups
A dog that repeatedly develops ear infections may therefore need investigation into why the ear keeps becoming inflamed, rather than simply treating each episode independently.
Yeast and Bacteria
Yeast and bacteria can multiply in an inflamed ear and contribute to infection.
Because different organisms may be involved, veterinarians often perform ear cytology.
A sample of debris is collected and examined microscopically.
This helps determine what is present and guides the selection of appropriate medication. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
Ear Mites and Other Parasites
Parasites can also cause ear disease.
Ear mites are particularly associated with younger animals, although dogs of different ages can experience parasitic ear problems.
Parasites can create intense itching and inflammation, and secondary infections may subsequently develop. (Merck Animal Health Canada)
Veterinary examination can help distinguish mites from other causes of dark ear debris.
Foreign Material in the Ear
Dogs explore the world with enthusiasm.
Outdoor adventures through yards, fields, trails, and green spaces around Navan, Orléans, Gloucester, Blackburn Hamlet, and the greater Ottawa area can potentially expose ears to plant material, insects, and other foreign objects.
A foreign object lodged in the ear may cause sudden:
- Head shaking
- Pawing
- Pain
- Head tilt
- Irritation
Cornell notes that foreign material in the ear may require veterinary removal and, depending on the situation, sedation may be necessary. (Cornell Vet School)
A dog that suddenly becomes intensely bothered by one ear after outdoor activity should be assessed rather than having objects blindly inserted into the ear canal.
Swimming and Moisture
Dogs that love swimming can be more susceptible to ear problems.
Moisture trapped inside the ear canal can create conditions that favour the growth of yeast and bacteria. Cornell specifically identifies swimming in lakes, rivers, and streams as a common contributor to ear infections, particularly when the canal remains warm and moist. (Cornell Vet School)
For dogs around Ottawa and surrounding communities that swim regularly during warmer weather, ear care after swimming can be particularly important.
Ear Shape Can Increase Risk
Some dogs are naturally more susceptible to ear disease because of their anatomy.
Dogs with:
- Long or floppy ears
- Narrow ear canals
- Hairy ear canals
- Certain skin characteristics
may be more predisposed to otitis externa. (Merck Animal Health Canada)
This does not mean every floppy eared dog will develop an infection.
It simply means owners may need to pay closer attention to changes.
Can Overcleaning Cause Ear Problems?
Yes.
More cleaning is not always better.
Cornell advises that healthy ears generally only require routine cleaning when dirt or debris is present and notes that overcleaning can irritate the ears. (Cornell Vet School)
A veterinarian can recommend an appropriate cleaning schedule for dogs that have recurrent ear disease.
How Does a Veterinarian Diagnose an Ear Infection?
The veterinarian first needs to understand what is happening inside the ear.
Assessment may include:
- Medical history
- Examination of both ears
- Evaluation of pain and inflammation
- Otoscopic examination
- Ear cytology
- Additional testing in persistent or complicated cases
An otoscope allows the veterinarian to look deeper into the ear canal and assess structures including the eardrum when visualization is possible.
Cytology helps identify organisms such as bacteria and yeast. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
Why Checking the Eardrum Matters
The condition of the eardrum can influence which treatments are appropriate.
This is one reason owners should be careful about placing random home remedies or medications into an inflamed ear.
Cornell notes that veterinarians assess whether the eardrum is intact because its condition can affect which medications can safely be used. (Cornell Vet School)
An ear that looks dirty from the outside may have more complicated disease deeper inside.
How Are Dog Ear Infections Treated?
Treatment depends on what is causing the problem.
A treatment plan may involve:
- Appropriate ear cleaning
- Topical medication
- Treatment targeting yeast or bacteria
- Anti inflammatory treatment
- Parasite treatment
- Removal of foreign material
- Management of underlying allergies
- Additional treatment for middle or inner ear disease
There is no single ear medication appropriate for every dog.
Treatment needs to match the diagnosis. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
Why Finishing Treatment Matters
An ear may look better before the underlying infection has completely resolved.
Stopping treatment prematurely can allow problems to persist or return.
Veterinary guidance emphasizes completing the prescribed treatment and reassessing persistent or recurrent infections rather than assuming that reduced scratching means the problem is gone. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
For chronic cases, identifying the underlying cause is particularly important.
Should Dog Owners Clean an Infected Ear at Home?
Sometimes, but owners should follow veterinary instructions.
Cleaning can remove wax and debris and help certain topical medications reach the ear canal more effectively. (Cornell Vet School)
However, a severely inflamed ear can be painful.
If a dog appears painful during cleaning, Cornell recommends stopping and consulting the veterinarian. (Cornell Vet School)
Owners should not force a painful dog to tolerate aggressive ear cleaning.
What Should Never Be Used to Clean a Dog’s Ear?
Owners should avoid improvising with household products.
Cornell advises avoiding cleaners containing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, particularly because they can irritate the ear. (Cornell Vet School)
Cotton swabs should also not be pushed down into the ear canal because they can push debris deeper. Cornell recommends cotton pads or balls for gently wiping accessible material instead. (Cornell Vet School)
When an infection is suspected, asking a veterinarian which product is appropriate is safer than experimenting.
Can Ear Infections Become Serious?
Yes.
Chronic or inadequately controlled external ear disease can sometimes progress to the middle ear.
Middle ear disease can produce pain, discharge, head shaking, scratching, and head tilt.
When infection reaches the inner ear, dogs may develop:
- Severe balance problems
- Difficulty standing
- Difficulty walking
- Head tilt
- Abnormal eye movements
- Hearing problems
Neurological complications can also occur in severe cases. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Early attention to persistent ear disease can help reduce the likelihood of deeper complications.
Head Shaking Can Cause Another Problem
Severe repeated head shaking can sometimes contribute to an aural hematoma, a blood filled swelling involving the ear flap.
Cornell explains that vigorous scratching and head shaking can rupture blood vessels within the ear flap. (Cornell Vet School)
Owners may notice the ear flap suddenly becoming thick, soft, or swollen.
That swelling can be uncomfortable and requires veterinary attention.
How Can Dog Ear Infections Be Prevented?
Not every ear infection can be prevented, particularly when a dog has underlying allergies or anatomical predispositions.
However, owners can take several practical steps.
Check the Ears Regularly
Look for changes in:
- Colour
- Smell
- Moisture
- Wax
- Discharge
- Sensitivity
Recognizing a change early is easier when owners know what their dog’s healthy ears normally look and smell like.
Keep Ears Dry
After bathing or swimming, ears should be gently dried.
Dogs that swim frequently may require a veterinarian recommended ear care routine. (Cornell Vet School)
Follow an Individual Cleaning Schedule
Some dogs prone to recurrent ear disease benefit from maintenance cleaning.
Others with healthy ears need very little cleaning.
The right schedule depends on the individual dog. (Cornell Vet School)
Manage Underlying Allergies
If allergies are driving recurrent ear inflammation, repeatedly treating secondary infections without addressing the allergy may result in recurring problems.
Long term management should therefore focus on the underlying condition as well as each individual flare. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
When Should Ottawa Pet Owners Call a Veterinarian?
Veterinary attention is appropriate when a dog develops:
- Persistent head shaking
- Frequent ear scratching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Strong odour
- Ear discharge
- Pain when touched
- Recurrent ear problems
- Sudden symptoms affecting one ear
For owners searching for a vet near me, veterinarian Ottawa near me, or vet clinic Ottawa, mentioning whether one or both ears are affected and how quickly the symptoms appeared can provide useful information.
When Does an Ear Problem Need More Urgent Attention?
A simple itchy ear and an inner ear problem are very different situations.
Prompt veterinary attention is particularly important when a dog develops:
- Significant head tilt
- Loss of balance
- Difficulty walking
- Abnormal eye movements
- Severe pain
- Facial movement abnormalities
- Rapidly worsening symptoms
These signs can indicate deeper ear involvement. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Ear Health for Dogs Across Ottawa
A dog’s lifestyle can influence its ear health.
A dog exploring rural surroundings in Navan may encounter different environmental exposures from a dog taking neighbourhood walks in Vanier. Dogs in Orléans, Gloucester, Blackburn Hamlet, and Rockcliffe may spend time in parks, yards, trails, or swimming during Ottawa’s warmer months.
Some dogs have allergies.
Some have floppy ears.
Some love water.
Others have experienced recurring infections for years.
There is no single ear care routine that works for every dog.
What matters is recognizing what is normal for the individual pet and responding when that pattern changes.
Final Thoughts
Dog ear infections can be uncomfortable, painful, and frustrating when they repeatedly return.
For pet owners throughout Ottawa, Blackburn Hamlet, Orléans, Gloucester, Navan, Vanier, and Rockcliffe, early warning signs commonly include head shaking, scratching, redness, odour, discharge, swelling, and sensitivity around the ears. (Cornell Vet School)
Treatment should focus not only on controlling the immediate infection but also on identifying what allowed the ear problem to develop. Allergies, moisture, parasites, foreign objects, ear anatomy, yeast, and bacteria may all play a role.
Healthy ears help keep a dog comfortable. When scratching, head shaking, odour, discharge, or redness becomes persistent, those changes should not be ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my dog has an ear infection?
Common signs include frequent head shaking, scratching, redness, discharge, increased wax, odour, and discomfort when the ear is touched. (Cornell Vet School)
Why does my dog keep getting ear infections?
Recurring ear problems can be associated with underlying allergies, ear anatomy, moisture, parasites, and other conditions. Determining the underlying cause is important for reducing recurrence. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
Can allergies cause ear infections in dogs?
Yes. Allergic inflammation is an important underlying cause of canine ear disease and can create conditions that allow secondary yeast or bacterial infections to develop. (Cornell Vet School)
Can swimming cause ear infections in dogs?
Swimming can leave moisture inside the ear canal, creating an environment that favours yeast and bacterial growth, particularly in susceptible dogs. (Cornell Vet School)
Should I use hydrogen peroxide in my dog’s ears?
Cornell recommends avoiding ear cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide or alcohol because they can irritate the ears. (Cornell Vet School)
How often should a dog’s ears be cleaned?
It depends on the dog. Healthy ears may only need cleaning when dirt or debris is present, while dogs prone to recurrent infections may require a veterinarian recommended maintenance schedule. Overcleaning can itself cause irritation. (Cornell Vet School)
Why is my dog tilting its head because of an ear infection?
Middle or inner ear disease can affect balance and cause head tilt. If head tilt is accompanied by difficulty walking, loss of coordination, or abnormal eye movements, prompt veterinary attention is appropriate. (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Can a dog ear infection go away on its own?
Because ear inflammation can have several underlying causes and may progress or recur, persistent symptoms should be evaluated rather than simply waiting for them to disappear. Appropriate treatment depends on what is causing the ear problem. (MSD Veterinary Manual)
