At some point, itchy dog ears is something we pet parents will encounter. If your dog occasionally scratches at their ears, it’s likely not an issue. However, certain breeds, especially those who spend time outdoors or those with longer, floppy ears, are more prone to itchiness and problems.
Some common causes of ear itchiness include allergies, parasites, foreign bodies, or infections, but they usually start with debris, dirt, or inflammation.
According to Dr. Sharon Daley, CVM, CVA, of North Carolina, persistent itchy ears can be secondary to allergies—food or environmental. Daley says pet parents should first rule out ear infections or other skin issues around the head, which we will discuss in this article.
Ear issues are one of the top reasons dogs visit the veterinarian (1), which doesn’t surprise Dr. Daley. She says dogs with heavy, floppy ears are prone to yeast or bacterial infections because they are dark and moist. We’ll discuss the common causes of itchy dog ears and how to relieve your dog’s ear issues.
8 Common Causes of Dog Itchy Ears
Here are some of the most common causes of itchy dog ears.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are one of the most common causes of itchy ears in dogs. As Dr. Daley noted, canine ear infections can be yeast or bacterial. She says the dark and moist area deep in dogs’ ears is a good place for infections to flare.
A veterinarian uses an otoscope to visualize your dog’s ear canal and eardrum. They can evaluate the contents by taking a sample of any ear discharge to identify yeast or bacteria. It is commonly caused by an overgrowth of a specific yeast called Malassezia pachydermatis. Bacterial infections are commonly caused by Staphylococcus or Pseudomonas bacteria.
Imagine yeast or bacteria forming deep in your ear. You can imagine how itchy that might be. Without a proper cytologic diagnosis, dogs can get caught up in a cycle of antibiotics, and treatments don’t get rid of the problem.
Common signs of a canine ear infection include shaking, tilting, scratching at the ears, redness, and swelling of the ear canal, discharge of a brown or black nature, pus emanating from the ear canal, and loss of balance.
Allergies
Allergies flare when your dog’s immune system overreacts to a typically harmless substance called an allergen. Allergies can be severe, such as when a person allergic to nuts comes in contact with them. Allergies may require treatment or removal of the offending triggers.
Some common canine allergens include food, environmental factors, and seasonal flare-ups. Dogs can be allergic to protein (beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, etc.) and/or ingredients in their diet. This can be frustrating for pet parents trying to determine the source of the itch.
Environmental factors are things in your dog’s everyday world–indoors and outdoors. Examples include pollen, mold, dander, dust mites, flea saliva, carpeting, grasses, and trees. If your dog is itchy after a walk, it could be something they are walking on or surrounded by.
Seasonal allergies can trigger atopic dermatitis (itchy skin). If your dog is itchier in the fall or spring, it could be from trees, grasses, weeds, mold spores, and more that pop up at certain times of the year.
Ear Mites
The scientific name for ear mites is Otodectes cynotis, a fancy way of saying microscopic parasites that infest the ear canal of dogs and cats. They thrive on wax and skin oils and will not go away without proper treatment.
Younger dogs are more prone to ear mites, as they are contagious. The naked eye cannot generally see ear mites, but your dog’s ear canal may have a dark, coffee-ground appearance. There is generally a foul odor and swelling or redness as well. If your dog has itchy ears and paws at them or shakes their head, ear mites may be the culprit.
Foreign Objects
Dogs are low to the ground and enjoy sniffing their world. Common culprits that make their way into a dog’s ear include grass seeds, foxtails, dirt, debris, insects, and plant matter. If you suspect your dog has something in their ear canal, never attempt to remove it yourself. This can cause more harm than good.
A veterinarian can safely examine the ear and remove the foreign body. Dogs who persistently scratch their ears, rub their face or ears against furniture, or paw at their face or ears and appear to be in discomfort may have something stuck in their ear.
Moisture and Hygiene Issues
“We’ve all had times where we swim or shower, and water gets into our ears,” Dr. Daley explains. “Moisture that remains in the ear can irritate.”
She says moisture can get trapped since dogs have both a vertical and horizontal ear canal. Yeast and bacteria thrive on moisture, so dogs are prone to ear infections.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid glands don’t produce enough hormones. It is common in dogs of all ages and slows their metabolism. Whenever a dog’s metabolism is disrupted, infections can occur. Common signs of an underactive thyroid include dry or flaky skin, lack of energy, and susceptibility to infections, including the ear.
Cushing’s Disease involves the overproduction of cortisol from the adrenal glands. When cortisol levels increase, the immune system is suppressed, and dogs are more prone to infections.
Dogs that persistently scratch their skin and ears, have hair loss, especially around the ears, or seem less energetic should be checked for a hormone imbalance.
Breed Dispositions
Dogs with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Beagles, and Dachshunds, are adorable but also prone to itchy ears and ear infections.
Floppy ears hang down and cover the ear canal, unlike a German Shepherd’s ears, which stand erect and allow better airflow. Moisture, debris, wax, and limited airflow contribute to a dark, moist environment, leading to itchiness, infection, and even deafness if not treated early.
Hematoma
“Aside from ear infections, dogs can develop a hematoma in their ear flap from shaking their heads,” says Dr. Daley. “They can burst a blood vessel, and their ear flap will fill with blood, which can be another painful sequela to itchy ears.”
Sometimes called an aural hematoma, this localized collection of blood forms in the layers of your dog’s ear flap (pinna). Vigorous scratching and head shaking may lead to a hematoma. A veterinarian may use a needle to drain the blood. In some cases, surgery is required.
How to Help A Dog with Itchy Ears: A Quick Guide
Caring for a dog with itchy ears need not be complicated. Never second guess the cause of your dog’s itchiness. Here are some ways to help a dog with itchy ears.
Professional Veterinary Treatment
Working with a veterinarian and/or veterinary dermatologist can help. A veterinary dermatologist has advanced training to identify the root cause of your dog’s ear itching and discomfort.
A dermatologist may recommend medicated ear drops, antihistamines, and/or allergy medications. If your dog has a deep infection, they may clean the ears under sedation.
If your dog doesn’t respond to standard treatment, they can recommend alternative treatments like allergy shots (immunotherapy), food changes, antifungal medications, or antibiotics. What works for one dog may not work for another. This is why it is best not second to guess the cause of your dog’s itchy ears.
Routine Ear Checks
Examine your dog’s ear canals regularly. Never insert cotton swabs or other objects into the ear, as this can damage sensitive anatomy. Take a photo of what your dog’s normal ear canal looks like. You’ll have something to compare when anything out of the ordinary appears.
Look for anything attached to the ear, such as insects, debris, parasites, or foreign matter. Also, look closely for any cuts or irritations, as constant scratching can lead to ear infections.
If your dog enjoys water sports or swimming, dry their ears properly after. Use a dry cotton ball or gauze to absorb any remaining moisture in the ear canal. Always be gentle and praise your dog for being so awesome.
Pro Tip: Use a snood to cover your dog’s head and ears during bath time, especially if you have a floppy-eared breed. This will prevent water from entering the canal.
Grooming and Cleaning
One of the most important things you can do for a dog with itchy ears or to prevent itchy ears is to groom and clean the ears properly. Trimming ear hair or having a professional groomer do this regularly reduces the likelihood of moisture and debris building up or getting trapped in the ear canal.
Focus on improving airflow to your dog’s canals. Excessive hair buildup can lead to infections and itching.
Hypoallergenic Diets
Dogs with food sensitivities or food allergies may benefit from a hypoallergenic diet with limited ingredients that are less likely to cause issues.
Your veterinarian or dermatologist may suggest a hypoallergenic diet with other treatments. Pet parents are encouraged to monitor their dog’s symptoms while on the diet. Doing so may help resolve itchiness or other ongoing skin and digestive issues the dog is experiencing.
When to See a Vet: Red Flags for Persistent Itchy Ears
Occasional itching of the ears is normal, but if your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms regularly, seek veterinary intervention:
- Redness, swelling, or warm-to-the-touch ear canals
- Foul odor from the ears
- Pus, bleeding, or signs of infection
- Sensitivity or pain when touching their ears
- Ongoing scratching or head shaking
- Obvious hematoma
- Balance or hearing problems
- Suspected foreign body
- Crying out in pain
- Flecks in the ear canal that may be brown or black
At-home care and inspection are important. Keep track of what is normal in your dog so that you can seek professional care when something abnormal happens.
Final Thoughts on How to Help a Dog With Itchy Ears
Dr. Daley recommends pet parents look for anything around the head that may be causing ear irritation and itching. This includes itchy skin folds, itchy or watery eyes, or even a new collar. They may also consider changing dog food, such as salmon or lamb-based diets, and using a good ear cleaner.
She recommends cleaning your dog’s ears every other week if there are no signs of infection. If infection is suspected, your veterinarian will treat that first.
By identifying the root cause(s) of your dog’s itchy ears and providing timely care, you can ensure your pup doesn’t suffer. Regular ear cleaning, veterinary check-ups, establishing a normal baseline, and a healthy diet are keys to preventing ear problems before they start.
Sources
https://www.petinsurance.com/healthzone/pet-health/health-conditions/top-10-reasons-pets-visit-vets
