Why Are My Dog's Ears Red?

Since dogs are always on the go and exploring their environments, their ears can be subjected to anything from harmless ear wax to more harmful dust, mites or more. Healthy ears are a vital part of their well-being, so noticing redness in their ears can be alarming as a pet parent. 

While ear redness can sometimes be a minor irritation, it could also indicate a more serious issue. Sometimes, all they’ll need is a good cleaning at home, while other times medication might be necessary.

Understanding the potential causes of red ears and how to address them is crucial for keeping your furry friend happy, healthy and active.

Let’s explore the most common reasons for ear redness in dogs, what it could be a symptom of, and how to treat and prevent the issue. 

Ear infections

• Scratching or pawing at the ears
• Red, swollen ear canal
• Discharge or odor from the ear

Treatment: Ear infections are typically treated with prescription ear drops or oral antibiotics. Regular cleaning can help prevent infections, especially after swimming or bathing.

Allergies

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Ear Mites

Foreign Objects

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Ear hematomas

So how can we as pet parents get rid of our dog’s red ears? Well, the treatment depends on the cause. 

If you notice that your dog is getting red ears and seems uncomfortable, the best thing to do first is to inspect the ear yourself. Sometimes, if there’s a foreign body present, you may be able to remove the irritant yourself. 

But — it’s important to remember that ears are extremely sensitive. Never stick a Q-tip down inside the canal in order to try to remove an object or excess fluid; this action can cause serious damage to the eardrum. 

If you notice that your dog needs to have his ears cleaned, you can either clean them at home, or go to the vet if the cleaning is deeper than you feel comfortable doing. 

There are a few very important steps to cleaning your dog’s ears at home:

• Clean the ear with a gentle cleanser, as any infection will cause the area to be sensitive
• Fill the canal with cleaning fluid 
• Gently massage the base of the ear in order to move any debris that may be lodged inside
• Allow the ear canal to dry for 10 minutes before using any medications provided by your vet 

Keep in mind that you should never use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or Q-tips when cleaning your dog’s ears. The length of treatment will be determined based on the severity of your dog’s ear redness.

Be sure to schedule frequent checkups with your vet to ensure that the healing process is proceeding normally.

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While some causes of red ears are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

• Regular ear checks: Inspect your dog’s ears weekly for any signs of redness, odor, or discharge.
• Routine cleaning: Clean your dog’s ears regularly with a vet-recommended cleaner to prevent buildup of wax and debris.
• Dry ears after swimming: Always dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing to reduce moisture buildup, which can lead to infections.
• Monitor for allergies: Pay attention to potential allergens in your dog’s diet or environment and work with your vet to manage symptoms effectively.
• Vet checkups: Regular vet visits ensure any issues are caught early before they become more serious.
  

When to see a vet

If your dog’s ears are red and itchy for more than a day or two, or if they show other concerning symptoms like pain, discharge, or an unpleasant odor, it’s time to consult your vet. Chronic ear problems can lead to more severe conditions, such as hearing loss or persistent infections, if left untreated.

Treatment cost will vary depending on the cause of your dog’s red ears. For instance, if your dog is diagnosed with ear mites, the average cost of treatment is $250.

If your dog is diagnosed with ear infection due to allergies, the cost of treatment can range from $200 to $3,500 depending on the cost of living and the severity.