This information does not replace your vet. If in doubt, if symptoms worsen, or in a real emergency, contact a professional immediately.
Possible common causes
- โขMay be related to bacterial or fungal external otitis
- โขMay result from excessive earwax accumulation or normal secretions
- โขIn some cases may be associated with allergies (dietary or environmental)
- โขMay result from ear mites (Otodectes)
- โขMay be related to a foreign body in the ear canal
When to monitor at home
- The discharge is minimal and not accompanied by itching or strong odour
- The dog does not scratch the ear and does not repeatedly shake its head
- Ears were cleaned recently
When to contact the vet
- The odour is strong and persistent
- The dog scratches the ear insistently or shakes its head
- The ear appears red, swollen, or painful to the touch
- Presence of abundant dark or yellowish discharge
- The dog persistently tilts its head to one side
When it may be an emergency
- Intense and sudden ear pain with difficulty walking
- Head strongly tilted with loss of balance
