What should I check if my dog has a strong smell from its ears? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has a strong smell from its ears, the most common things to check are wax build-up, moisture, redness, discharge and any signs of irritation. A smell can sometimes be linked to routine grooming issues, but it can also point to an ear problem that needs a closer look.
It’s worth checking the ear canal and the skin around the ear flap, but avoid putting anything deep into the ear if you’re not sure what’s going on.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell is coming from one ear or both, as that can help you notice whether it’s a local issue or something more general.
2. Look for wax build-up, a greasy feel, discharge, dirt or a damp smell that suggests moisture has been sitting in the ear.
3. Check for redness, swelling, scabs, broken skin or any area that looks sore around the ear opening or flap.
4. Notice if your dog is scratching, rubbing, head shaking or holding the ear differently, as these can go along with irritation.
5. Smell carefully for a strong yeasty, sour or rancid odour, which can sometimes happen when the ear environment has changed.
6. Think about recent bathing, swimming, rainy walks or grooming, since trapped moisture can make an ear smell stronger.
7. Check whether your dog seems painful when the ear is touched, or pulls away when you look closely.
8. Make a note of whether the smell is new, getting worse or coming and going, so you can give a clear history if you speak to a vet.
Common Causes
Wax build-up is one of the most common reasons for a strong ear smell, especially if the ears are not getting routine cleaning or they tend to stay moist.
Moisture trapped in the ear after swimming, bathing or wet weather can also lead to an unpleasant smell, even before any other signs are obvious.
Ear irritation or inflammation may cause odour along with redness, scratching or head shaking. Yeast or bacterial overgrowth can also create a noticeable smell.
Less commonly, the smell may be linked to a foreign body, skin allergy or another ear problem that needs treatment from a vet.
What To Do
Keep the ear dry and avoid using cotton buds or trying to clean deep inside the canal.
If the ear only seems a bit dirty and your dog is otherwise comfortable, gentle routine grooming and keeping a note of any changes can be useful.
If the smell follows bathing or swimming, make sure the ears are dried carefully afterwards and watch whether the odour settles or keeps returning.
If the smell keeps coming back, seems strong, or is paired with scratching, discharge or soreness, arrange a vet check so the ear can be examined properly.
Related Questions
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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.