Dog ear problems – when should I see a vet?

Contact a vet if you see any of this

• A head tilt
• Loss of balance
• Flickering eye movements

What you can do now

1. Contact your vet.
2. Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
3. Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
4. Keep fresh water available.
5. Let your dog rest somewhere calm.

Don't

• Do not give any human medicine.
• Do not wait if it gets worse.

What it can mean

Many different ear problems can affect dogs, including some of the most common ear problems.^[1] Ear problems tend to cause swelling, redness, pain, a bad smell, itchiness and head shaking.^[1] They can also come with face rubbing, a swollen or droopy earflap, discharge, dirt, excess wax or blood, a head tilt, loss of balance or flickering eye movements.^[1]

Other signs that can come with it

• Heat, swelling, itchiness or pain
• A bad smell from the ear
• Head shaking or face rubbing
• A swollen or droopy earflap
• Discharge, dirt, excess wax or blood

What the experts say

“Heat, swelling, itchiness and pain ; A bad smell from the affected ear(s) ; Head shaking and face rubbing ; A swollen, droopy earflap ; Discharge, dirt, excess wax or blood from the affected ear(s) ; A head tilt ; Loss of balance ; Flickering eye movements”

Common questions

Other symptoms in dogs

Eye problemsEyelid LumpsFlatulenceHair lossHead tiltHumping BehaviourIncreased ThirstItchingItchy Ears and Head ShakingLimping and stiffnessLoss of balanceLow energy