Top 7 Signs Your Dog Might Have an Ear Problem (and How to Prevent It)
When was the last time you checked your dog’s ears? For many pet parents, dog ear care takes a backseat to baths and brushing. But neglecting your dog’s ears can lead to discomfort, infections, and even long-term health issues. Dogs rely heavily on their sense of hearing, so keeping their ears clean and healthy isn’t just grooming—it’s essential care.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the 7 warning signs your dog might have an ear problem and share practical dog grooming tips every pet parent should know.
1. Constant Head Shaking
If your dog keeps shaking their head like they’re trying to get water out of their ears, it’s a red flag. This could mean irritation caused by wax build-up, moisture, or an infection.
Prevention Tip: After baths or swims, gently dry your dog’s ears with a soft towel. Avoid letting water sit inside the ear canal for long periods.
2. Frequent Ear Scratching
Occasional scratching is normal. But if your dog is obsessively digging at their ears, something’s wrong. It could be allergies, mites, or infection starting to develop.
Prevention Tip: Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning with a vet-safe ear cleaning solution for dogs can help prevent irritation from escalating.
3. Bad Odor Coming from the Ears
Healthy dog ears shouldn’t smell. A strong, unpleasant odor usually signals yeast or bacterial infection. This often happens when moisture and dirt get trapped inside.
Prevention Tip: Keep the ears dry and clean. Use an alcohol-free dog ear cleaner designed for pets to remove dirt without disrupting the ear’s natural balance.
4. Redness or Swelling Inside the Ear
Flip your dog’s ear flap and take a look. If you notice redness, swelling, or inflammation, it’s a clear sign of irritation or infection. Left untreated, it can become painful for your dog.
Prevention Tip: Gentle weekly cleaning with a safe dog grooming product can help maintain healthy ear tissue.
5. Unusual Discharge or Wax Build-Up
A little wax is normal, but thick, dark brown, or yellow discharge signals a bigger issue—possibly mites or infection.
Prevention Tip: Schedule regular dog grooming sessions and keep a routine ear care plan to avoid build-up.
6. Sensitivity When You Touch Their Ears
If your dog flinches or whines when you touch their ears, they may be in pain. This is often an indication that the infection has progressed.
Prevention Tip: Handle ear care gently and consistently, so your dog stays comfortable and doesn’t develop fear or pain.
7. Sudden Loss of Balance
If your dog starts stumbling, losing balance, or holding its head at an odd angle, it could mean a deep ear infection that requires immediate vet attention.
Prevention Tip: Don’t skip routine checks. Early detection prevents severe infections and discomfort.
How to Prevent Ear Problems in Dogs
✔ Check ears weekly for dirt, odor, or redness
✔ Dry ears after baths or swimming
✔ Avoid harsh chemicals or human products
✔ Use a gentle, pet-safe ear cleaner regularly
One reliable option? Tilting Heads Pet Safe Ear Care Solution – a vet-approved, alcohol-free formula that cleans dirt, removes wax, and keeps your dog’s ears fresh without irritation. It’s the safest way to maintain ear hygiene and prevent infections naturally.
Final Thoughts
Your dog can’t tell you when their ears hurt—but these signs speak volumes. With a little care and the right dog grooming products, you can protect your dog from painful infections and keep those adorable ears healthy for life.
Ready to make ear care part of your grooming routine?
👉 Explore the Tilting Heads Pet Safe Ear Care Solution and give your pet the comfort they deserve.