Dog Ear Infections — Why They Keep Coming Back
Ear infections are the second most common reason dogs see the vet. Most recurring infections aren't really 'recurring' — they're untreated allergies underneath.
What an ear infection looks like
Head shaking. Scratching at the ear. Tilting the head to one side. A yeasty or foul smell. Redness inside the ear flap. Brown, black, or yellow discharge. Pain when the ear is touched. Some dogs become quiet or off their food simply because the pain is wearing them down.
What causes them
Most ear infections are downstream of allergies — environmental or food. Allergies cause inflammation in the ear canal, the canal stays warm and moist, and yeast or bacteria multiply. Other contributors: water in the ears after swimming or baths, ear mites (more common in cats and puppies), foreign material (grass seeds), and floppy-ear breeds with poor airflow.
Why they recur
Treating the infection without treating the underlying allergy is like mopping the floor with the tap running. If your dog has had more than 2 ear infections in a year, ask your vet to investigate allergies. Modern allergy meds dramatically reduce ear infection recurrence in dogs.
Home rules and red flags
Don't poke cotton swabs deep — you can damage the eardrum. Use a vet-prescribed cleaner if recommended; gently wipe only the visible part of the ear. If the eardrum may be damaged (head tilt, balance issues, eye flicking), only use medications cleared by your vet for that. Red flags: severe pain, head tilt, wobbliness, walking in circles, eyes flicking — these need a same-day vet visit.
Common causes
- Allergies (top cause)
- Yeast
- Bacteria
- Ear mites
- Water in ears
- Foreign body (grass seed)
- Hypothyroidism
When to worry
- Head tilt or wobbliness
- Severe pain
- Eye flicking (nystagmus)
- Recurring infections
- Bleeding from ear
- Unable to open mouth without pain
Quick actions
- Don't poke deep in the ear
- Note any head tilt or balance changes
- Schedule a vet visit
- Ask about allergies if 2+ infections in a year
- Use only vet-approved cleaners and medications
Products that may help
Hand-picked, vet-informed gear related to this symptom. Educational recommendations — not a substitute for veterinary care.
ClearCare
ClearCare Gentle Ear Cleaning Solution
Vet-formulated ear rinse that removes wax and debris and soothes itchy, smelly ears.
Affiliate disclosure. Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe help pets, and our picks are never paid placements. Products are educational recommendations, not medical advice — always consult your veterinarian.
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