Head tilts and those floppy-eared full-body shakes could be nothing more than a little itch that needed scratching or an act to capture the attention and hearts of every treat-containing human in close proximity… Or it could be something much worse.

Ear infections are one of the most common health issues in dogs. While some cases can be treated with a deep ear cleaning and potentially some ear drops, they can have devastating consequences if left untreated.

This blog will be the tell-all about ear infections in dogs, including the causes, symptoms, and what you can do to prevent them.

What Causes Ear Infections In Dogs?

Ear infections (or, if we're being fancy, otitis externa) aren't breed, age, or size-biased. They can affect all dogs. That said, pups with floppy ears, hairy ear canals, or a love for splashing around in water tend to be more prone to them. Why? Because moisture and debris can easily get trapped in the ear canal, creating the perfect warm, dark, and damp environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive.

Here are some of the most common culprits behind canine ear infections:

Bacteria - The number one cause. Once bacteria take hold, inflammation kicks in, leading to discomfort and more serious infections if left untreated.

Yeast – Especially common in warm, humid environments (or after a fun swim session).

Allergies —Food or environmental allergies can lead to excess ear wax and inflammation, which increases the risk of infection.

Ear mites – Tiny but mighty in their ability to irritate your dog's ears, especially in puppies.

Excess moisture – Think bath time, beach trips, or regular dips in the pool.

Foreign objects – Seeds, grass, or even tiny insects can get lodged in the ear canal and cause irritation.

Underlying conditions – Hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders, or other chronic issues may also be to blame.

Symptoms of Ear Infections in Dogs

If only our pups could tell us when something feels off! But since they can't, it's up to us to watch for signs — and thankfully, dogs tend to be pretty obvious when their ears aren't happy.

Keep an eye out for:

Frequent head shaking or tilting
Scratching at the ears
Redness or swelling in and around the ear
Unpleasant odour coming from the ears
Discharge (which can be brown, yellow, or bloody)
Crusty or scabby skin inside the ear flap
Loss of balance or coordination in severe cases
Sensitivity or pain when you touch their ears

If your dog shows any of these signs, it's best to get them checked by a vet ASAP. Ear infections can escalate quickly.

How To Prevent Ear Infections in Dogs

The good news? Most ear infections are preventable with a little TLC and regular grooming habits. Here's how to keep your pup's ears in tip-top shape:

Dry their ears thoroughly after baths and swims.
Clean their ears regularly using a dog-safe ear cleaner (never use cotton buds inside the ear canal!).
Trim excess hair around and inside the ears if recommended by your groomer or vet.
Monitor for allergies — both food and environmental — and work with a professional on a plan to manage them.
Routine check-ups — your vet can spot early signs of trouble before it becomes a full-blown infection.

For floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Basset Hounds, prevention is especially important. Their adorable ear flaps make airflow a challenge, so regular maintenance is key.

Ear infections in dogs might be common, but they're definitely not something to ignore. With the right knowledge and preventative care, you can keep those tail wags coming and avoid unnecessary trips to the vet.

If your pup's showing signs of ear discomfort or you just want to stay ahead of the game, chat with a professional about the best ear care routine for your dog's specific needs.

Because nothing says "I love you" like clean, healthy, happy ears.