Why is my dog crying when I touch its ear? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog cries when you touch its ear, it usually means the ear is sore or sensitive. The most common reasons are irritation, wax build-up, an ear infection, a small scratch, or something trapped in the ear. It’s worth checking the ear carefully, but avoid poking inside it.
Things To Check
1. Notice whether the crying happens when you touch the ear flap, the base of the ear, or only when you try to lift it.
2. Look for redness, swelling, heat, discharge, crusting, scabs, or a bad smell.
3. Check whether your dog is shaking their head, scratching the ear, or holding the head to one side.
4. See if the ear looks dirty, greasy, damp, or unusually waxy compared with the other side.
5. Watch for signs of pain elsewhere, such as yelping when the head is touched or avoiding being groomed.
6. Think about recent bathing, swimming, grooming, walking in long grass, or scratching that may have irritated the ear.
7. Compare both ears if your dog will allow it, as one-sided changes can be easier to spot.
Common Causes
Ear infection. This is a common reason for ear pain, especially if there’s smell, discharge, redness or head shaking. Infections can involve yeast, bacteria, or both.
Wax build-up or irritation. Too much wax, dampness, or a sensitive ear can make the area uncomfortable to touch.
Minor injury. A scratch, insect bite, rough grooming, or a foreign body like a grass seed can leave the ear sore.
Allergy-related ear irritation. Some dogs with skin or food allergies get recurring ear problems, often with itchiness as well as soreness.
Less commonly, deeper ear problems. If the pain is marked or the ear is very swollen, other ear conditions may be involved and need a vet to check properly.
What To Do
Keep handling gentle and avoid trying to clean deeply inside the ear. If the ear just looks mildly dirty, you can note what it looks like and monitor whether it gets worse over the next day or two.
Try to stop scratching as much as possible, because repeated rubbing can make soreness worse. Keep the ear dry after bathing or wet weather, and avoid putting anything into the ear unless you’ve been told to use a specific ear cleaner.
If you’ve recently changed grooming routine, bedding, or shampoo, consider whether that may have irritated the area. Take a note of any smell, discharge, or head shaking so you can describe it clearly if you need advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if your dog seems very painful, the ear is swollen, there’s discharge or a strong smell, or the problem doesn’t improve quickly. A vet should also check it sooner if your dog is head shaking a lot, losing balance, or won’t let you touch the ear at all.
Related Questions
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Should I clean my dog’s ears at home?
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.