Many dogs love the water, and summer means more lake days, pool splashes and sprinkler runs. For some dogs, it also means more ear infections. Understanding why this happens helps owners spot trouble early and build a simple routine that may reduce the risk.
Why a dog’s ears are prone to trouble
A dog’s ear canal is shaped differently from a person’s. It runs down vertically and then turns toward the eardrum, forming an L shape. Water that gets into the canal does not always drain out easily. A warm, damp canal is an inviting environment for yeast and bacteria that normally live on the skin in small numbers.
Dogs with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds and many retrievers, tend to have less airflow into the canal. Dogs with a lot of hair in the ear canal and dogs with allergies are also commonly prone to ear problems. Allergies in particular are a frequent underlying cause of recurring ear infections, and summer pollen can play a part.
Signs of an ear problem
- Head shaking or tilting.
- Scratching or pawing at the ear.
- Redness or swelling inside the ear flap or canal.
- A bad odor from the ear.
- Brown, yellow or bloody discharge.
- Pain when the ear is touched, or reluctance to have the head handled.
- Loss of balance or unusual eye movements, which can signal a deeper problem and needs prompt care.
Vigorous head shaking can also cause an aural hematoma, a swelling of the ear flap filled with blood, which needs veterinary attention.
A gentle drying routine
Many veterinarians recommend drying the ears after swimming or bathing. A typical routine looks like this:
- Gently wipe the outer ear and the visible part of the canal with a soft towel or cotton ball.
- Avoid pushing cotton swabs deep into the canal, which can pack debris further in or injure the ear.
- Ask your vet whether an ear cleaner or drying solution made for dogs is right for your dog, and how often to use it.
- Let your dog shake off after cleaning; it helps bring loosened debris up and out.
Avoid home remedies such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol unless your veterinarian specifically recommends them. They can sting irritated skin and may be harmful if the eardrum is damaged.
When to see the vet
Ear infections are uncomfortable and usually need a proper diagnosis. Your veterinarian can look into the canal, check the eardrum and often examine a sample of discharge under a microscope to see whether yeast, bacteria or both are involved. That guides the right treatment. Over-the-counter products used without a diagnosis may not address the cause and can delay effective care.
If your dog gets ear infections often, ask your vet about possible underlying causes, such as allergies, and about a prevention plan tailored to your dog’s ears and habits.
