Why is my dog’s ear swollen?
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Overview
If your dog’s ear is swollen, it’s usually a sign of irritation, inflammation or infection. It can also happen after scratching, shaking the head, a bite or a small injury. You can often check a few simple things at home, but you can’t tell the exact cause just by looking.
Things To Check
1. Notice whether the swelling is on the ear flap, around the ear opening, or deeper inside the ear.
2. Look for redness, heat, discharge, scabs, a bad smell or signs of soreness when the ear is touched.
3. Check whether your dog has been shaking their head, scratching at the ear or rubbing their face more than usual.
4. Think about whether the problem started after swimming, grooming, a walk, play, or time in long grass.
5. Compare both ears to see if one side is affected or if both look changed.
6. See if your dog seems uncomfortable, tilts their head, holds the ear differently or seems less willing to have the head handled.
7. Check for any visible cuts, bites, stuck debris or signs that your dog may have scratched the ear raw.
8. Note whether the swelling is getting bigger, staying the same, or settling down over time.
Common Causes
The most common reason for a swollen ear is inflammation linked to an ear infection, which may affect the ear canal and sometimes the ear flap too. Allergies and skin irritation can also make ears puffy, red and itchy.
Another common cause is a haematoma, which is a pocket of blood that can form after repeated head shaking or scratching. Minor knocks, bites, trapped moisture or a foreign body can also lead to swelling. Less commonly, a swollen ear may be linked to a more serious skin or ear problem that needs veterinary attention.
What To Do
Keep an eye on the swelling and note any changes in size, smell, discharge or discomfort. If your dog is scratching, try to stop any further irritation and avoid poking inside the ear.
Keep the ear dry after bathing or swimming, and stick to normal gentle cleaning only if you already do this as part of your routine. If the ear looks sore, dirty or full of discharge, it’s best not to put anything in it unless you’ve been advised to do so by a vet.
When To Contact A Vet
Get veterinary advice if the swelling is sudden, painful, getting worse, or if your dog seems unwell, keeps shaking their head, has discharge, a bad smell, or is struggling to hear or balance. A swollen ear can sometimes need treatment, especially if there’s infection, a haematoma or an injury.
Products That May Help
If your dog is prone to dirty ears, routine grooming or gentle cleaning around the outer ear may be part of a sensible care routine. The arlo.® Pet Care collection may be useful for owners looking to support everyday hygiene and coat care at home.
Related Questions
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What does a dog ear infection look like?
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.