A Dog Scratching Ear: 6 Causes, Solutions, and Prevention

A dog scratching its ear is the first and main sign of ear problems. According to First Vet, other common signs of ear problems in dogs are:

Different clinical signs and symptoms point to different ear problems. Itchy ears and a dog scratching ear are usually a symptom of the most common ear problem – dog ear infections.

A dog scratching its ear is a sign it has an ear issue and needs to be examined by a vet. Keep in mind that the occasional ear itch is normal (just like people itch their ears from time to time, dogs need to do it as well).

However, persistent or frequent dog scratching ear is troublesome. For example, if the dog stops eating or wakes up just to give its ear a good scratch, it is time to call the veterinarian.

A dog scratching its ear can be a sign of many underlying conditions. Here are some of the most common causes of itchy ears in dogs.

Ear Infections. Ear infections in dogs are a widespread issue, especially among dogs with large ears (Retrievers), floppy ears (Cocker Spaniels), or hairy ear canals (Poodles). An ear infection can be caused by bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. In most cases, they are triggered by an imbalance of the microflora living in the dog’s ears, resulting in a yeast infection.

Ear Mites. Ear mites are parasites that live in the dog’s ear canals and feed on cerumen (ear wax). Ear mites are infectious, meaning they are spread from one dog to another. A dog with ear mites will have excess ear wax with an unusually dark or even black color. Managing ear mites requires help from a veterinarian. 

Allergies. Dogs with food allergies and sensitivities experience itchy ears. Itchy ears are also one of the signs in dogs with atopic dermatitis and flea allergy dermatitis. Dogs sensitive to environmental allergens (pollen, dust, human dander) can develop ear issues if continuously exposed to the problematic allergen. Dog scratching ear is an unusual yet common sign of allergies. 

Foreign Body. Foreign bodies may get lodged in the dog’s ear canal and cause issues. A dog with a foreign body will shake its head vigorously and paw at the ear in an attempt to get rid of the object. The most common foreign body in the dog’s ear is foxtails. Solving the problem requires veterinary help – removing the foreign object and damage control.

Ear Polyps and Tumors. A dog with growth inside the ear can also exhibit signs similar to ear infections. Such growths can be benign (for example, polyps) or malignant (tumors). In both cases, they have to be surgically removed to relieve the symptoms and improve the dog’s life quality. Based on the exact location, full removal may not be possible.

Skin Disease. Various skin diseases (bacterial infections or parasitic infestations like mange) may cause ear issues – scratching and redness. In such cases, the dog ear scratching issue cannot be solved until the underlying skin disease is managed. In this case, the exact treatment for a dog scratching its ear depends on the type of skin problem.

When dealing with dog scratching ears, there are several things and products that pet owners can try. Here are some highly recommended products for itchy ears in dogs.

PetLab Co. Probiotics for Dogs. This dog probiotic is formulated not only to deliver digestive support but also to promote healthy yeast production and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies and itchy skin.

Veterinarian Formula Hot Spot and Itch Relief. This itch relief spray provides rapid relief as it manages inflammation and itchiness. Plus, the vet-formulated spray is straightforward to use – spray the affected area until well-saturated and repeat twice a day for a week.

NaturPet Ear Drops for Ear Infections. These homeopathic ear drops are perfect for outer and inner ear infections and general ear cleaning. For infections, they are used twice daily for a week and as a dog ear-cleaning solution on a bi-weekly basis.

Canis Cattus Allergy & Immune Supplement. This oral supplement is perfect for dogs with allergy-trigger itchy ears. The supplement can be mixed with dog food for easy feeding. Or, you can squirt between one and three drops directly into the dog’s mouth.

Ear Well Dog Ear Wipes. These natural and gentle wipes are perfect for maintaining healthy ears and preventing ear problems. They are made with aloe and eucalyptus and help reduce ear odor and itching. When using them, gently rub the inside of the dog’s ear flap.

To diagnose itchy ears in dogs, vets start by performing a thorough physical examination. This is important as sometimes the underlying cause of the dog scratching ear issue is not in the ear itself.

According to the American Kennel Club, the physical examination for a dog scratching ear includes:

Home remedies can be used to treat itchy ears. However, if the dog is in pain or has other signs and symptoms and itchiness, it needs to be taken to a vet. Better Pet suggests that a dog scratching ear may benefit from these products.

Vetericyn Plus Ear Rinse. This dog ear cleaning solution can be used to remove foreign materials, alleviate irritation, and combat odors. Saturate the affected area and massage the ear gently. Repeat the procedure one to four times a day or as needed.

Veterinarian Formula Ear Therapy. This ear drops help with bacterial and fungal infections in both dogs and cats. Simply fill the ear canal and massage gently. Repeat the procedure as often as needed, as there are no harsh ingredients.

Curaseb Ear Infection Treatment. This ear flush has anti-inflammatory properties and can manage infections, inflammation, and itchiness in a dog’s ears. Apply liberally to the affected area twice a day or as often as a vet suggests.

Entederm Topical Ointment. This topical medication in the form of ointment helps treat pets with bacterial or yeast infections found in the ears. Apply to the affected area once a day or once weekly, depending on the severity of the problem.

Itch Relief Pet Ear Cleaner. This ear cleaner with aloe vera and eucalyptus gives rapid relief for dogs with itchy ears due to allergies. Gently massage in a few drops twice daily and swab the gunk gently with a cotton ball.

A dog scratching its ear is a progressive issue that can worsen quickly if left untreated. Continuous ear scratching can be a sign of ear infection, and one of the most common antibiotic options is . So, if your dog has itchy or inflamed ears, consult your trusted veterinarian and follow what they prescribe.

To prevent ear scratching in dogs, regularly take care of your dog’s ears. The dog scratching ear scenario is preventable by following these steps: 

Proper and regular veterinary care can be expensive. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare yourself and get a good pet insurance plan. We recommend OneVet – it gives 24/7 access to licensed vets, $3.000 in emergency funds, and coverage for pre-existing conditions for only $19.99.