Why does my dog’s ear smell bad? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog’s ear smells bad, it’s often a sign that something in the ear needs attention, such as wax build-up, moisture, irritation or an infection. You usually can’t tell the exact cause from smell alone, but the odour is worth checking rather than ignoring.
Some ear smells are mild and come and go after swimming, grooming or a muddy walk. Others are stronger, persistent or linked with scratching, head shaking, redness or discharge.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the smell started after swimming, bathing, grooming or a wet walk.
2. Look closely for redness, swelling, scabs, discharge, crusting or any signs the ear is sore.
3. Notice whether your dog is scratching the ear, shaking their head or tilting it to one side.
4. Smell each ear separately if you can, as one ear may be affected more than the other.
5. See if there is wax build-up, debris, a greasy feel or visible dirt in the ear flap or entrance.
6. Check whether your dog seems bothered when you touch the ear or head area.
7. Think about whether the smell keeps coming back after cleaning, or if it’s getting stronger over time.
Common Causes
The most common causes are wax build-up, trapped moisture and general irritation. Dogs with floppy ears, hairy ear canals or a history of ear problems can be more prone to this.
Yeast overgrowth can also cause a noticeable smell, often with a greasy feel, dark debris and itching.
Bacterial infection is another common reason, especially if there’s discharge, redness, soreness or head shaking.
Less commonly, the smell may be linked to an underlying allergy, a foreign body, ear mites or a deeper ear problem that needs a vet to assess properly.
What To Do
Keep an eye on whether the smell is short-lived or persistent. If it’s mild and there are no other signs, note when it happens and whether anything seems to trigger it.
Keep the ears dry after swimming or bathing, and avoid poking inside the ear canal. If your dog tolerates handling, gently look at the ear flap and entrance for obvious dirt or irritation.
If the smell keeps returning, or there are other changes such as discomfort, discharge or head shaking, it’s sensible to get veterinary advice so the ear can be checked properly.
Products That May Help
For dogs with ears that tend to get messy, damp or odorous, a simple grooming routine can help you keep an eye on changes and manage day-to-day cleaning more comfortably.
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.