Common Causes of Canine Ear Infections

by | Albany Dog Trainer

Common Causes of Canine Ear Infections

Ear infections in dogs can sneak up quickly—but the good news is, they’re often preventable. By understanding what causes them, you can take steps to minimize the risk and protect your pup’s ear health.

Let’s break down the most common culprits behind canine ear infections so you can be better prepared.

Common Causes of Canine Ear Infections

1. Allergies

One of the most frequent underlying causes of chronic ear infections in dogs is allergies. These can be environmental (like pollen, dust, or mold) or food-related.

When a dog has an allergic reaction, it often causes inflammation in the skin—including the sensitive skin of the ear canal. That inflammation leads to:

  • Redness and itching

  • Increased wax production

  • A weakened skin barrier

These changes create a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. If your dog has recurring ear infections, allergies may be the root cause.

2. Moisture and Humidity

Dogs who love to swim or who frequently get bathed can develop ear infections due to trapped moisture in their ear canals. This is especially problematic for breeds with floppy or hairy ears, where airflow is restricted.

Moisture inside the ear canal encourages yeast and bacteria to multiply. You may notice:

  • A musty smell

  • Brownish discharge

  • Head shaking after swimming

The solution? Always dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after water activities, and consider a drying ear cleaner recommended by your vet.

3. Ear Mites

Ear mites are more common in puppies and rescue dogs, but they can affect dogs of any age. These tiny parasites feed on ear wax and skin oils, and their presence causes:

  • Intense itching

  • Dark, crumbly debris that looks like coffee grounds

  • Constant head shaking or scratching

Ear mites are extremely contagious between pets. If one pet in the household has them, all animals may need to be treated.

Vets can diagnose mites easily under a microscope and will prescribe topical or oral treatments to eliminate them quickly.

4. Excessive Ear Wax

Some dogs naturally produce more ear wax than others. Over time, this wax can build up and create a breeding ground for infection, especially if not cleaned regularly.

Signs of wax-related issues include:

  • Foul odor

  • Yellow or brown wax build-up

  • Mild head shaking or scratching

Regular cleaning with a vet-approved ear cleanser can help control wax buildup. Just avoid over-cleaning, which can irritate the ear canal.

5. Foreign Bodies

It doesn’t take much for something small—like a blade of grass, foxtail, or seed—to get into your dog’s ear and cause trouble. These foreign bodies irritate the ear canal, which can lead to:

  • Sudden head shaking

  • Rubbing the ear on the floor

  • Sensitivity or yelping when touched

In some cases, the foreign object causes an infection to develop. A vet will need to safely remove the object before treatment can begin.

6. Ear Anatomy

Some breeds are just more prone to infections because of the shape of their ears or excess ear hair. These factors limit ventilation and make it easier for moisture and debris to collect.

High-risk breeds include:

  • Cocker Spaniels

  • Basset Hounds

  • Poodles

  • Labradoodles

  • Bulldogs

For these dogs, ear infections are often an ongoing issue, so routine cleaning and frequent checkups are key.

7. Hormonal Imbalances or Immune Disorders

Though less common, certain health conditions like hypothyroidism or autoimmune disorders can contribute to recurring ear infections. These conditions affect the body’s ability to regulate skin health and fight off infections.

If your dog has chronic infections that don’t respond well to treatment, your vet may recommend blood work or additional testing to rule out underlying health issues.

8. Injuries or Trauma

Dogs who frequently scratch their ears due to fleas, allergies, or even boredom can cause micro-injuries in the ear canal. These tiny scratches can become inflamed or infected, especially if bacteria are introduced during the scratching.

Similarly, rough play or excessive grooming by other pets can lead to irritation that develops into an infection.

How to Reduce the Risk of Ear Infections

While you can’t eliminate every risk, you can dramatically lower your dog’s chances of getting an ear infection with some preventative steps:

  • Keep ears dry and clean after swimming or baths

  • Feed a balanced diet that supports skin health

  • Address allergies with your vet’s help

  • Regularly inspect ears for redness, smell, or discharge

  • Groom long-haired breeds to reduce ear hair buildup

The earlier you notice a problem, the easier it is to treat.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the most common causes of ear infections in dogs gives you a powerful tool for prevention. Whether your pup is a floppy-eared swimmer or a sensitive allergy sufferer, understanding their individual risk factors helps you stay one step ahead.

Up next, we’ll explore how to recognize the signs of an ear infection, so you can catch problems early and avoid discomfort for your furry friend.