Itchy Ears in Dogs 2025: Causes, Symptoms & Vet Approved Relief 🐶✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

If your dog is scratching their ears constantly, shaking their head, or rubbing their face on the ground—it’s time to pay attention. Itchy ears aren’t just annoying, they can lead to painful infections and hearing loss if left untreated.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. Here’s what causes itchy ears in dogs, how to treat them, and when to call your vet.

🔍 Common Causes of Itchy Ears

1. Ear Infections

• Yeast or bacterial infections are the most common causes
• Symptoms: odor, discharge, redness, frequent head shaking

2. Allergies

• Environmental (pollen, dust), food allergies, or flea allergy dermatitis
• Itchy ears are often the first sign of an allergic reaction in dogs

3. Ear Mites

• More common in puppies or dogs from shelters
• Dark discharge, intense scratching, and shaking

4. Foreign Objects or Water

• Grass seeds, debris, or water from bathing/swimming can cause irritation

5. Excess Ear Wax or Hair

• Some dogs overproduce wax or grow hair in the ear canal, causing blockage and inflammation

🧪 How Vets Diagnose the Cause

• Physical ear exam with an otoscope
• Microscopic examination of debris (cytology)
• Culture or allergy testing for chronic cases

💊 Treatment Options

For Infections:

• Topical medicated drops or ointments (antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory)
• In severe cases: oral antibiotics or antifungals

For Allergies:

• Anti-itch medications (Apoquel, Cytopoint)
• Antihistamines or dietary trials for food allergies

For Ear Mites:

• Prescription parasiticides like Revolution, Simparica, or Advocate

🧼 Ear Cleaning Tips

• Use a vet-approved cleanser (e.g., Epi-Otic, TrizEDTA)
• Never use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol—they can damage ear tissue
• Gently squirt into the ear, massage the base, and wipe away excess with cotton pads

🛑 When NOT to Clean

• If your dog is in pain or has an ear injury or ulcer
• If you see pus, swelling, or a closed canal—see your vet first

🔁 Preventing Recurring Ear Problems

• Clean ears weekly or after swimming
• Trim hair around ears if needed
• Address allergies with long-term management

🔗 Helpful Tools from Ask A Vet

• Explorer Harness – Avoids contact with sensitive ears vs collars
• Ask A Vet – Upload ear photos, track treatment, and speak to a vet within minutes

📋 Summary Excerpt

Dog scratching their ears? Itchy ears can be a sign of allergies, infection, or worse. A vet breaks down what’s normal, what’s not, and how to give relief fast.

❓ FAQs

• Q: Can I use over-the-counter ear drops?
  A: Only if approved by your vet. Incorrect use can worsen infections or cause deafness.
• Q: Why does my dog’s ear smell bad?
  A: It’s often a sign of yeast or bacteria. Odor = infection more often than not.
• Q: Can itchy ears be a sign of food allergies?
  A: Yes, many dogs with food allergies show symptoms first in the ears or paws.