Why Your Dog Keeps Scratching Her Ear: Causes and Solutions
If your dog is frequently scratching her ear, it may seem like a minor annoyance—but this behavior can be a signal of a deeper issue. While an occasional scratch is normal, repeated itching, especially when paired with signs like head shaking, redness, odor, discharge, or pain, may indicate a medical problem requiring prompt veterinary attention.
Common Causes of Ear Scratching in Dogs
- Ear Infections: One of the most frequent causes, ear infections often develop from bacteria or yeast overgrowth. Symptoms include red, painful ears, a foul smell, discharge (yellow, brown, or black), and crusting or swelling of the ear canal. Dogs may tilt their heads or resist ear handling when infected.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to food or environmental factors like pollen, mold, or dust can cause inflammation and itching. Chronic ear issues often stem from poorly controlled allergies, which may also promote secondary infections.
- Parasites: Ear mites are tiny parasites that create dry, crumbly debris resembling coffee grounds. They're more common in puppies but can affect adults. Other parasites like fleas and ticks may also irritate the ears.
- Foreign Bodies: Grass seeds, foxtails, or small plant debris can lodge in the ear canal, prompting intense scratching and head shaking.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, and skin disorders may lead to chronic ear issues.
- Injury or Trauma: Excessive scratching or head shaking can cause an aural hematoma, a painful, balloon-like swelling in the ear flap due to ruptured blood vessels.
- Tumors or Polyps: Both benign and malignant growths can develop inside the ear, obstructing the canal and contributing to recurring infections.
Signs That Require Veterinary Attention
- Persistent ear scratching or head shaking
- Redness, swelling, or thickened ear tissue
- Discharge from the ears (yellow, brown, black)
- Foul odor emitting from the ears
- Visible wounds or sores
- Hair loss or scaling behind or on the ear flap
- Pain or sensitivity to ear touch
- Loss of balance, stumbling, or abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
Diagnosing the Cause
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, which may include:
- Otoscopy: A visual inspection inside the ear with a special lighted tool
- Ear Cytology: Microscopic analysis of ear discharge to detect bacteria, yeast, or mites
- Allergy Testing: Blood or skin testing may be needed to evaluate underlying allergies
- Imaging or Sedation: Severe or chronic cases may require radiographs or sedation for ear canal cleaning and diagnosis
Treatment Options
Treatment varies depending on the cause:
- For Infections: Topical and oral antibiotics or antifungal medications
- For Parasites: Anti-mite or flea treatments
- For Allergies: Dietary changes, immunotherapy, or antihistamine use
- For Foreign Bodies: Manual removal under sedation if necessary
- For Hematomas or Tumors: Surgical intervention may be required
- For Pain & Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve discomfort and promote healing
Prevention Tips to Keep Your Dog's Ears Healthy
- Regularly clean your dog’s ears using a vet-approved solution
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Check for debris or plant material after outdoor activity
- Trim excess hair around and inside the ears, especially in hairy breeds
- Address known allergies and avoid exposure to allergens
- Feed a balanced diet and watch for food-related reactions
- Use flea and tick preventives consistently
- Schedule routine checkups and act promptly on new symptoms
Important Note: Never insert cotton swabs or other objects deep into your dog’s ears. Doing so risks damaging the eardrum, especially if it is already compromised. Before applying any home treatment or ear cleaner, get a veterinarian’s confirmation that the eardrum is intact.
The Takeaway
When your dog frequently scratches her ear, it's more than just a nuisance—it might signal infection, an allergy, or a more serious condition. By understanding the warning signs and seeking timely veterinary care, you can protect your pet from pain and long-term damage. With good hygiene habits, preventive care, and professional guidance, your dog’s ears can stay healthy and itch-free.
