What causes one ear to be worse than the other in dogs? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If one ear is worse than the other, it’s usually because something is affecting that ear more directly, such as wax build-up, moisture, irritation, a foreign body or an ear infection starting on one side. Dogs often don’t have identical ears, so one ear can show symptoms first or more strongly.
It’s sensible to check both ears carefully, but don’t try to force anything into the ear canal. The aim is to spot clues that help you decide whether it’s a simple hygiene issue or something that needs veterinary attention.
Things To Check
1. See whether one ear is redder, hotter, smellier or more swollen than the other.
2. Look for discharge, dark wax, scabs, broken skin or a wet feeling inside the ear flap.
3. Notice if your dog is scratching one side more, shaking their head, rubbing their face or tilting their head.
4. Think about what happened before it started, such as bathing, swimming, grooming, walks through long grass or windy weather.
5. Check whether your dog has had ear problems before, or whether they have floppy ears, lots of hair in the ear or a history of skin issues.
6. Look for signs of pain when you touch near the ear or when they chew, yawn or have their collar handled.
7. Compare both ears for wax build-up, since one side can often collect more debris than the other.
Common Causes
The most common reason is an ear infection that has started in one ear or is simply more advanced on that side. This can happen with bacteria or yeast, often after moisture, irritation or wax build-up.
Wax and dirt can also make one ear look worse, especially if that ear is narrower, hairier or more prone to trapping debris.
Local irritation is another common cause. This might be from scratching, grooming, a small scratch, grass seeds or an allergic flare-up affecting one ear more than the other.
Less commonly, a foreign body or a problem deeper in the ear canal can make one ear seem much worse. Ear mites are more common in some dogs than others, especially if there’s intense scratching and dark discharge.
What To Do
Start by keeping the ear dry and avoiding anything that could irritate it further. Don’t use cotton buds inside the ear, and don’t put drops in unless they’ve been recommended for your dog.
Note what you’re seeing and whether it’s getting better, staying the same or worsening over 24 to 48 hours. A photo can help you compare changes and explain the problem clearly if you need advice.
If the ear looks mildly dirty but your dog seems comfortable, keep to a gentle routine and watch closely. If there’s smell, discharge, marked redness, head shaking or discomfort, it’s a good idea to get it checked because ear problems can become harder to manage once they settle in.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if one ear is painful, very swollen, bleeding, producing discharge, or if your dog is shaking their head a lot, holding the head to one side or seeming unwell. You should also get advice if the problem keeps coming back or doesn’t improve with sensible home checks.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s ears are prone to getting dirty, greasy or a bit smelly, a gentle care routine can help you keep on top of things between checks. This collection may be useful as part of regular grooming and ear hygiene.
Related Questions
Why does my dog keep scratching one ear?
Should I clean my dog’s ears if they smell?
When does an ear problem need a vet check?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.