What does it mean if my dog has a strong smell from its ears? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
A strong smell from your dog’s ears usually means something is irritating the ear canal or allowing wax and moisture to build up. It can happen for a few different reasons, including mites, ear infection, excess wax, allergies, or trapped dirt, so the smell itself doesn’t tell you exactly what’s going on.
If the ear also looks red, feels hot, has discharge, or your dog is scratching it a lot, that makes an underlying ear problem more likely.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is from one ear or both, and whether it’s new or has been building for a while.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, crusting, discharge, or a darker waxy build-up.
3. Notice if your dog is scratching, head shaking, rubbing their ears, or holding their head to one side.
4. See if the ear seems painful when touched, or if your dog pulls away when you near it.
5. Check whether the smell is worse after swimming, bathing, rain, or muddy walks.
6. Look for other skin signs such as itchiness, sore patches, or changes around the face and neck.
7. If you can do so gently, note whether the inside of the ear looks dry and waxy or moist and irritated.
Common Causes
Wax build-up is one of the most common reasons for an ear smell, especially if the ear canal isn’t getting enough air flow.
Moisture trapped in the ear after swimming, bathing, or wet weather can also create a strong, musty smell.
Ear mites can cause irritation, dark debris, and a foul smell, particularly if your dog is very itchy or shaking their head.
Ear infections are another common cause, and they often come with redness, discharge, discomfort, and a noticeably stronger odour.
Allergies or skin sensitivity can make the ears more inflamed and prone to smell because the skin inside the ear becomes irritated.
What To Do
Keep a simple note of when you first noticed the smell, whether it changes, and any other signs such as scratching or head shaking.
Only clean the ears if you’re confident they’re just a little dirty and your vet has previously shown you the right way to do it. Never use cotton buds deep in the ear.
Try to keep the ears as dry as possible after bathing, swimming, or wet walks.
Reduce exposure to muddy, dusty or very damp conditions where you can, especially if your dog’s ears seem to flare up afterwards.
If your dog has recurring ear smell, regular grooming and gentle ear checks can help you spot changes early.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the smell is strong or persistent, if your dog seems uncomfortable, or if you notice discharge, swelling, pain, or repeated scratching. Ear problems can worsen if they’re left alone, and mites, infection, and other causes often need proper treatment.
Get advice sooner if the ear looks very inflamed, your dog seems off colour, or the problem keeps coming back.
Products That May Help
If your dog’s ears are a bit dirty, waxy, or generally in need of routine care, this collection may be useful alongside sensible home checks and grooming habits.
Related Questions
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How often should I check my dog’s ears?
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.