What should I check if my dog has discharge from the ear?
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Overview
If your dog has discharge from the ear, the first thing to check is what the discharge looks like and whether your dog seems sore, itchy or off colour. It could be caused by wax build-up, irritation, a foreign body, allergies or an ear infection, so you can't tell the cause from discharge alone.
Small amounts of waxy discharge can sometimes be part of normal ear cleaning, but smelly, coloured, bloody or sticky discharge usually means the ear needs closer attention.
Things To Check
1. Look at the colour and texture of the discharge. Waxy brown, yellow, green, bloody or pus-like discharge can suggest different problems.
2. Check whether one ear or both ears are affected. One-sided discharge can sometimes point to something trapped in the ear, while both ears may fit allergy or skin-related irritation.
3. Notice whether your dog is scratching, head shaking or rubbing the ear. These signs often mean the ear feels uncomfortable.
4. Smell the ear gently. A strong, unpleasant smell can be a useful clue that the ear is not just dirty.
5. Look for redness, swelling, heat, scabs or a sore ear flap. These changes can happen with inflammation or scratching.
6. Check if your dog seems painful when the ear is touched or if they are holding the head to one side. Pain can mean the problem is more than simple wax.
7. Think about recent swimming, bathing, grooming or walks in long grass. Moisture and debris can sometimes make ear problems more noticeable.
Common Causes
The most common causes are wax build-up and ear inflammation linked to allergy or irritation. These can lead to dirty-looking discharge and discomfort.
Ear infections are also common, especially if the ear is warm, smelly, red or producing thicker discharge. Yeast and bacteria are both possible, but they need proper assessment rather than guesswork.
Less commonly, discharge may be caused by a foreign body, such as grass seed or dirt, ear mites, or a skin condition affecting the ear.
What To Do
Keep a note of what the discharge looks like, which ear is affected and whether the problem is getting worse. That information can help your vet if the ear needs checking.
Try to keep the ear dry and avoid poking inside with cotton buds or other objects. That can push debris deeper or irritate the ear canal.
If your dog is scratching a lot, try to stop further rubbing if you can, because repeated scratching can make the ear more inflamed.
If the discharge is mild and your dog otherwise seems well, monitor it closely for 24 hours. If it persists, becomes smelly, changes colour or your dog seems uncomfortable, book a vet appointment.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet promptly if the discharge is bloody, there is a bad smell, your dog seems painful, the ear is very red or swollen, or the problem keeps coming back. You should also get advice quickly if your dog is shaking their head constantly, seems unsteady, or the ear looks badly affected.
Ear problems can worsen if they are left too long, and it's best not to assume it's only wax or dirt.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to dirty ears or routine grooming needs, this collection may help support a sensible ear and coat care routine at home.
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.