What to Do About Smelly Dog Ears? Causes of Otitis Externa and Cleaning Guide

Smelly dog ears are typically a warning sign of otitis externa and should not be ignored. Otitis externa is the most common ear problem in dogs, especially in floppy-eared breeds. Regular moderate cleaning and keeping the ear canal dry are key to prevention, but once redness, swelling, or abnormal discharge appears, seek veterinary care promptly rather than attempting self-treatment.

## Why Do Dog Ears Smell?

A dog's ear canal is L-shaped, with a longer vertical portion. This structure easily traps moisture and debris, creating a humid, warm environment that becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

**Common causes include:**

* Trapped moisture (not drying ears after bathing or swimming)
* Allergic diseases (the most common underlying cause)
* Ear mite infection
* Excessive earwax buildup
* Overgrown ear hair, narrow ear canals
* Over-cleaning that disrupts ear canal balance

**High-risk breeds:**

Floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and Basset Hounds are particularly prone to otitis externa because their ears press against their faces, creating poor ventilation in warm ear canals, combined with naturally higher oil secretion.

## What Are the Symptoms of Otitis Externa?

Pay special attention when your dog shows these behaviors or symptoms:

**Behavioral changes:**
* Constantly scratching ears
* Frequent head shaking or tilting
* Growling or attempting to bite when ears are touched

**Physical changes:**
* Hair loss, flaking, or scabbing on the ear flap
* Red, swollen, or ulcerated ear canal
* Excessive earwax or pus-like discharge
* Noticeable odor

If left untreated, otitis externa can progress to middle or inner ear infections, affecting your dog's balance and potentially causing permanent hearing loss.

## Proper Home Cleaning Methods

**Cleaning frequency:**

* General dogs: Once or twice a month is sufficient
* Floppy-eared breeds or oily-eared dogs: Once a week
* Don't over-clean when there's no visible earwax

**Cleaning steps:**

1. Prepare pet-specific ear cleaning solution and clean cotton pads
2. Drip an appropriate amount of cleaning solution into the ear canal
3. Gently massage the ear base for 15-20 seconds to let the solution dissolve earwax
4. Allow your dog to naturally shake their head, expelling dissolved debris
5. Use cotton pads or gauze to wipe the ear flap and visible ear canal entrance

**Important reminders:**

* Never insert cotton swabs deep into the ear canal! A dog's ear canal is L-shaped; cotton swabs only push earwax deeper and may damage the ear canal lining
* Only clean visible areas
* Over-cleaning destroys the ear canal's natural protective mechanism and can cause problems

## When to See a Veterinarian

Take your dog directly to the vet in these situations—don't attempt self-treatment:

* Visibly red, swollen ear canal or wounds present
* Pus-like or bloody discharge
* Extremely foul odor
* Dog is in too much pain to allow ear touching
* Symptoms don't improve or continue worsening after cleaning

## Treatment Methods for Otitis Externa

Veterinarians use different treatment approaches depending on the condition:

1. **Ear canal flushing**: Professional removal of accumulated earwax and discharge
2. **Topical ear drops**: Containing antibacterial, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory ingredients
3. **Oral medication**: Systemic antibiotics may be needed for severe infections
4. **Identifying root causes**: If allergies are the cause, the allergy issue must also be addressed

Otitis externa tends to recur because the underlying cause (such as allergies) often remains unresolved. Working with your veterinarian to identify and manage triggering factors is essential for truly reducing recurrence.

## Daily Prevention Tips

* Always dry ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming
* Regularly check ears and smell for any unusual odor
* Keep ear canals ventilated; have groomers trim ear hair when necessary
* Avoid over-cleaning; maintain the ear canal's natural balance

Ear health is an important part of your dog's quality of life. Developing a habit of regular checks and addressing issues early can prevent small problems from becoming big troubles.

---
**References:**
* [Say Goodbye to Smelly Ears—What Pet Parents Can Do! - PetTalk](https://www.pettalk.tw/blog/吿別臭臭耳，毛爸毛媽可以這樣做！｜專業獸醫—楊孝柏)
* [Understanding Otitis Externa - Virbac](https://tw.virbac.com/home/healthcare/otitis-externa.html)
* [Understanding Dog Otitis Externa - Pet Health Medical Network](https://pethealth.com.tw/otitis-externa-in-dogs/)
* [How Often Should You Clean Dog Ears? - baanpets](https://baanpets.com/en/baan-pets05/)
* [What If Dog Otitis Externa Won't Heal? - Hatsuhi Animal Hospital](https://hatsuhi-ah.com/external-otitis-2/)

---