Dogs, PetsJohn
A dog’s hearing is just one of their many superpowers. Their ears can detect pitches at frequencies three times higher than our human ears can! Whether listening for hunting prey or their favorite squeaky toy, dogs need their ears in tip-top shape.
But your dog’s favorite massage spots are vulnerable to a range of health issues. And many of those problems can lead to the most annoying symptom of all—constant ear itching. If you catch your dog scratching ear to ear in frustration, don’t panic. To help out our favorite furry friends, we have a guide on every way to relieve your dog’s itchy ears.
Start with Symptoms & Signs
At the first sign of a frantic itchy ear, pause before speed-dialing your vet.
We at Vetericyn know that your pet’s health is a number one concern—and it should be! But not every head shake or ear scratch is a red flag. If your dog’s itching turns constant, however, check for signs of underlying ear issues first. After all, no one wants to pay for an unnecessary visit to the veterinarian.
To that end, here are some ear symptoms that often go with consistent itching:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Funky or fruity odors
- Discharge (usually yellow or brown)
- New bumps or spots
- Bleeding or dried blood
- Hearing loss
- Sudden loss of balance or sense of direction
If any of these signs crop up, then your dog might need a little more than a behind-the-ears scratch. Ask your veterinarian if he could take a look inside your pup’s ears, just to play it safe.
Figure Out What’s Scratching
Sure, you might pop a Tyelnol with every headache. But to find a real cure, you need to learn why your head actually hurts in the first place. The same goes with your dog scratching away at their head—some temporary relief, but no cure.
From microscopic bugs to seasonal sniffles, let’s review the many causes behind dog itchy ears.
Creepy Critters
Maybe your pet is a fan of muddy hikes. Or maybe they love roughhousing at the dog park.
No matter the activity, dog ears encounter millions of tiny organisms every day. And those critters can cause some serious ear itching and health issues.
If you notice pain and discharge alongside ear scratching fits, your dog might host one of these culprits:
- Mites – While visible to the eye, mites are sneaky critters. They usually appear on the body first, so skin scabs and overall itching are common symptoms. As well, if you notice crusty dog ear discharge that is black or brown, mites are likely the cause.
- Bacterial Infections – Common and dangerous, bacterial infections can affect the outer, middle, and inner ear. Symptoms like yellow or brown discharge, swelling, and redness will appear quickly. Treat a bacterial infection as soon as possible, as festering canine ear infections can lead to hearing damage.
- Yeast or Fungi – While slightly less common, yeast and fungi (like Malasezzia or Aspergillus) will often create foul odors and hair loss on top of bacterial infection symptoms.
Other Causes
It’s hard to beat a dog’s enthusiasm for play time—that’s what makes them so lovable! But sometimes, that playful nature can lead to accidents. And other times, life just happens.
Besides teeny critters, there are a few other reasons why you might be googling “dog keeps itching ear.” In which case, these are some non-living culprits that might be the cause of the issue:
- Trauma or Injury — Anything from a small cut to a ruptured eardrum counts as ear trauma. If your dog shows any sign of pain, treat their injury ASAP to avoid an unwanted ear infection.
- Allergies – Your kid’s 4th grade classmates aren’t the only ones with serious allergies. Dogs can be allergic to substances found in food, the environment, and elsewhere. Ask for allergy testing if you notice swelling, eye watering, and redness with ear itching.
- Foreign Bodies – Remember that canine sense of play? While playing fetch in the backyard, your dog’s ears might just pick up a “toy” of their own. Again, a vet’s tools are the only way to see if a foreign object is the culprit.
- Tumor or Polyps – Before you freak out, know that every ear bump doesn’t mean cancer. Sometimes, a buildup of ear wax or infections can lead to polyps. Tumors & polyps often hide in the ear canal, so make sure to check with your vet for an expert diagnosis.
- Plain ‘Ol Dirt – If you notice a few minutes of ear itching after hiking with your pup, don’t worry. Sometimes, a bit of dirt can resolve itself. So long as the scratching eases after a few hours, your dog is in the clear.
Build an Itch Relief Toolkit
You saw the vet. You got the diagnosis. You picked up the prescription. Now, it’s showtime.
Well, your dog may not agree. Getting your pet to tolerate pesky routines requires a ton of patience (and treats). But with these tips, we’ve got your back and their ear health covered.
Apply With Care
“A spoonful of sugar” is the motto here. Try and cushion your dog’s ear medication with as much soothing and praise as possible. After all, it’s not the most comfortable experience for them.
Antibiotics and other pills are easy to hide in a liverwurst treat. But if applying liquid medication, here are a few key tips:
- Vet Assistance – Before flying solo, ask your vet if they can demonstrate correct medicine application. That way, you can avoid weeks of ineffective treatment.
- Grab a Partner – A helping hand can make all the difference, especially with bigger dogs. Ask a friend to hold your pup still while you administer the treatment.
- Stay Clean – Most ear medicines will have a squeeze tip for easy application. However, try and keep that tip from actually touching your dog’s ear—that way, you won’t spread germs.
- Rub It In – Once applied, take a few moments to massage your pet’s ear. This will ensure the treatment properly disperses throughout the whole ear area.
Home Medicines
Most dog ear medicines eventually cure the cause behind pesky scratching. But during the healing stage, consider a safe over-the-counter or natural itch relief aid.
A few dog-friendly home treatments:
- Calendula lotion
- Apple cider vinegar (diluted)
- Hydrocortisone ointment
- Mullein oil
- Antihistamines
Remember—unless vet-approved, do not drip these substances down the ear canal. Instead, stick to applying along the outer cartilage and skin.
Keep It Clean
Nothing strikes fear in germs like hygiene. To keep canine ear infections at bay, start with monthly ear cleaning sessions. Unless your dog has daily “mud visits,” you probably won’t need more than that. For ear cleaning novices, you’ll need to gather a few simple materials:
- Scissors – For particularly furry friends, a mini pair of round-edged scissors will clear up intrusive ear hairs. You’ll need maximum visibility to give a proper and safe cleaning.
- Cotton Material – Pads, wipes, or tissues will all work here. A cotton ball is strong enough to pick up debris, but gentle enough not to irritate your pet’s delicate ears. However, stay far from Q-tips. A pokey swab could potentially cause inner ear injuries.
- Ear Cleaning Solution – Water won’t do the trick, here. You need an ear cleanser that can battle germs and soothe any irritation or itching. As a nontoxic solution, Vetericyn’s antimicrobial ear rinse does the job. No stinging alcohols, no harmful steroids, only fast itch relief and efficient cleaning for your dog’s ears.
- Rewards – Like giving medicine, cleaning a dog’s ears requires a little extra pampering. Rewarding your dog teaches them to tolerate a less-than-comfortable situation. Treats, belly rubs, and kind words usually do the trick.
An Ounce of Prevention…
…is worth a pound of expensive vet bills. Isn’t that the saying?
Holistic care gets a bad rap as a new age fad. But even your dog could benefit from a top-down healthy lifestyle. From feeding time to playdates, let’s break down how to improve your dog’s protections against itchy infections.
Diet
Allergies are one issue. But according to experts, your dog’s diet also plays a huge role in their immune system.
Your dog’s microbiome—a collection of useful, germ-fighting bacteria—lives mainly in the gut. These protective bacteria love a natural, carnivorous diet. Stale kibble, though, can lead to bacterial imbalance and lower immunity.
Ditch the dry chow. Instead, switch to moist and natural dog food options (fiber and whole ingredients are key). From shinier hair to less infections, your dog will reap the benefits.
Supplements
Not all supplements are created equal. To specifically treat itchy or infected ears, look for anti-inflammatory substances like:
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
- Turmeric
- Probiotics
For safety reasons, make sure to get vet approval before giving any supplement to your pet.
Environment
From grassy fields to sandy lakes, dogs love to roam the outdoors. However, the outdoors don’t always equally return the love.
If you own a champion doggy paddler, you’ll need to step up the ear care effort. After every swim, lightly dry your pet’s ears with a soft towel or T-shirt. Ridding any moisture will cut down on the most infectious germs from creeping into your dog’s ear canal.
For dogs who love the woodlands or meadows, watch out for seeds from foxtail and other grasses. Always follow adventures with an ear check, and call the vet if symptoms appear after outdoors time.
Say It’s Over to Itching
No dog deserves to be in pain. Whether it’s a small scratch or repeat fungal infection, we hope this itch relief guide will bring some peace to your dog’s ears. With loving care and the right tools, like Vetericyn’s effective ear solutions, your dog can keep their superpower ears in super condition.
Most importantly, if you’re concerned about the cause of the itchiness, reach out to your vet. They’ll likely be able to diagnose the issue immediately.
Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian
Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm.
Sources:
- Dogs Naturally Magazine. Home Remedies For Your Dog’s Itchy Ears. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/ear-health/
- PetMD. Natural Ways to Improve Your Dog’s Immune System. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/natural-ways-improve-your-dogs-immune-system
- Central Texas Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital. How to Spot an Ear Infection In Your Dog. https://www.ctvsh.com/services/dogs/blog/how-spot-ear-infection-your-dog
- Oakland Veterinary Referral Services. Ear Polyps in Pets: What Pet Owners Need to Hear. https://www.ovrs.com/blog/ear-polyps-pets-pet-owners-need-hear/
- ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. Dog Ear Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention. https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/dog-ear-infections-causes-symptoms-and-prevention/
- American Kennel Club. Dogs Don’t Have a Sixth Sense, They Just Have Incredible Hearing. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/sounds-only-dogs-can-hear/
FAQs
Does Olive Oil Help dogs itchy ears? ›
Never put olive oil, vinegar, shampoo, or any other substance in a dog's ear. Also, avoid poking around with cotton buds in the ear, you will only work any wax and debris further in and potentially damage the eardrum.
How do you make homemade ear drops for dogs? ›Water into a resealable bottle then you'll add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. And then you'
Why won't my dog stop itching his ear? ›Constant ear scratching is a sign your dog may have ear mites. Learn what other symptoms ear mites cause and how you can work with your vet to get rid of them. Ear mites are microscopic parasites who like to live in a dog's ears. They eat wax, oil, and other debris found inside the affected dog's ears.
What can I put on my dog's irritated ear? ›Apple cider vinegar can help reduce the itch and discomfort of an ear infection. Mix 1 part vinegar and 1 part filtered or spring water. Clean the visible parts of the ear with a cotton ball soaked in the mixture. Make sure you get the liquid into the ear canal by holding your dog's ear still.
What kills ear mites naturally? ›Antiseptic Tea Rinse.
Green tea is a natural antiseptic. It can be used to flush out all the ear mite debris—that crumbly brown/black stuff that clogs the puppy's ear canal. Steep a tablespoon of green tea leaves in a cup of hot water for three or four minutes and then strain it.
Remember that the opening to the ear canal is the furthest hole to the outside. If you do not have any dog ear cleaner then use olive oil as this too will help loosen any wax. Having put some cleaner or olive oil into the canal, massage the ear and pinch the canal until you hear a squelching noise.
How can I treat a yeast infection in my dog's ear without going to the vet? ›Apple cider vinegar works by killing both yeast and bacteria. Use a mixture of 50% organic apple cider vinegar and 50% water, soak a cotton ball and clean your dog's ears.
Can I put Vaseline in my dog's ear? ›Vaseline is a synthetic, petroleum-based product formulated for human use only. More importantly, it does not actually moisturize dry skin! In fact, petroleum jelly can actually encourage infection by clogging pores. Vaseline is not a solution for dry dog ears.
Why does my dog keep scratching his ear and shaking his head? ›If your dog scratches their ears or shakes their head regularly, it could be a sign of an ear or skin problem. Common causes include skin allergies, ear infections and ear mites.
What is the brown stuff in my dog's ears? ›Dark brown or black—This type of earwax is commonly associated with yeast and/or bacterial ear infections. It's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if earwax is this color. Brown—Light brown earwax is normal and expected. If the wax is accompanied by odor or inflammation, it can be a sign of infection.
What foods cause yeast infections in dogs ears? ›
carbs and sugar are what yeast thrives on. Feeding a high carbohydrate kibble diet often leads to food allergies or intolerances that make your dog more susceptible to yeast.
Will Apple cider vinegar hurt my dogs ears? ›Apple cider vinegar can clean a dog's ears and rebalance the skin pH, but it will also dry out ears to combat yeast and bacterial infections. When using apple cider vinegar around your dog's ears, remember to never use it on raw or open sores since it is an acid and will burn and cause irritation.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for itchy ears? ›For most dogs, the appropriate dosage of Benadryl is perfectly safe. It will begin to reduce symptoms like skin rashes in about an hour. Getting the dosage right is important because most Benadryl tablets are intended for humans. Some dogs can be quite small, so they need less Benadryl than a person.
How do you get rid of itchy ears? ›Itching by itself without evidence of trauma or infection can be treated with a mild steroid ear drop. A few drops placed in the ear will help to decrease the amount of itching. Another helpful treatment is the use of 70% alcohol (rubbing alcohol) as an ear drop.
What should I do if my dog keeps shaking his head? ›Chronic head shaking is just one indicator of a potentially serious health issue. If you notice your dog shaking their head frequently, or exhibiting additional symptoms like inflamed ears, scratching, ear sensitivity or an unpleasant odour coming from the ears, consult your vet right away.
Can I put hydrogen peroxide in my dog's ear? ›No. Don't use hydrogen peroxide on your pup. This common household product can actually cause irritation to healthy skin cells. Ears contain very sensitive tissue, and extended use of hydrogen peroxide could eventually lead to damage of the ear itself.
Why does my dog scratch his ear and then lick his foot? ›Dog and cat ear infection symptoms
Your dog or cat might be scratching at their ears, and shaking their heads more than usual. If they scratch and then smell their paw, and lick it after, or have any other of these signs, you should probably have your veterinarian take a look at the ear canal.
3 Effective Home Remedies for Ear Mites in Dogs - YouTube
How can I tell if my dog has ear mites? ›Ear mites live in the ear canal and on the surrounding skin. Signs of ear mites in dogs include scratching around the ears, head and neck, skin irritation, head shaking, the presence of an ear discharge that is dark and waxy (resembling coffee grounds) and an unpleasant odour from the ears.
How often should I put apple cider vinegar in my dog's ear? ›If your dog has smelly earwax and you want to try the vinegar before taking him in to the veterinarian, clean the ears then apply a few drops of the apple cider vinegar to each ear once a day. Ear infections are hard to clear up so try this at least two weeks before giving up.
Can I rub coconut oil in my dog's ears? ›
Pets are susceptible to ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast and ear mites. Apply a few drops of coconut oil to your pet's ears each day to soothe itchiness, clear up infection, kill mites, and keep their ears clean and healthy.
Is Tea Tree Oil safe for dog ears? ›A: Many dog ear cleaners incorporate small amounts of tea tree oil for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. However, full-strength tea tree oil is toxic to pets, so it must be diluted to a concentration of one percent or less.
Does tea tree oil help dogs ears? ›Among the substances your vet might suggest is tea tree oil, which contains properties that reduce swelling, disinfect the ear and kill harmful bacteria.
Can I treat my dog's ear infection myself? ›Never put anything in your dog's ear without veterinary instruction. Your veterinary team can help you find the ideal treatment to treat the infection and give your dog much-needed relief. Itchy, uncomfortable ears can be caused by everything from ear infections to allergies and ear mites.
What is the difference between ear mites and yeast infection in dogs? ›What's the Difference Between Ear Mites and Yeast Infections in Dogs? Yeast infections in a dog's ears generally cause redness, a brown discharge, head shaking or rubbing, odor, and itching. Ear mite infections are extremely itchy and can cause many of the same symptoms.
What does yeast infection in dogs ears look like? ›Signs That Your Dog May Have A Yeast Ear Infection
Red or brown waxy discharge in the ear. Itching, scratching & pawing at the ear. A cheesy or musty smell coming from the ear. Red or irritated ear.
The most common reason for dogs to excessively scratch their ears is because they're experiencing an ear infection. Ear infections can range in severity, and will be treated differently depending on what is causing the infection. The causes of ear infections could be: mites, parasites, foreign bodies, or yeast buildup.
Is apple cider vinegar good for ear mites in dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar is a great solution to problems with a dog's ear since it kills all bacteria. However, you shouldn't use vinegar if your dog's ear has become too sore as it can hurt. Mix the vinegar with water, it should be one-part water one-part vinegar. Put the mixture in a syringe or soak it into a cotton ball.
What ointment is safe for dogs? ›Neosporin® is a common topical antibiotic used on minor cuts and scrapes. This ointment is pretty safe in dogs and should be in every first aid kit.
Can humans get ear mites from dogs? ›Ear mites are contagious to other animals but not to humans. Ear mite infestation can cause secondary ear infections, but the mites and infections are both treatable with medication.
How do you treat black wax in dogs ears? ›
To clean the ears, tilt your dog's head downward with one hand and squirt a gentle cleanser recommended by your veterinarian into the ear, filling the canal. Holding the ear closed, give it a nice massage, really squishing the cleanser around in there. That softens any gunk inside.
Can I use baby wipes on my dog's ears? ›Cleaning your dog's ears at home doesn't require a lot of tools. Cotton balls, tissues, and baby wipes are some of the things humans use as grooming tools.
Where do dogs get ear mites? ›Your dog can get ear mites from just spending time outdoors. When outside, ear mites can be found in areas with a lot of trees or grasses. When your dog unknowingly passes by the mites, they cling to your dog and climb up to the ear. It's also possible for ear mites to pass from pet to pet.
What kills yeast in a dogs ears? ›For yeast infection, I frequently recommend an ear-cleaning product that contains ketoconazole. Alternatively, for mild yeast infections I will recommend a homemade mixture of 1- part white vinegar to 2-parts warm water as a nice cleaning solution.
What food kills yeast in dogs? ›Since yeast is a fungus, you can kill them by giving your dog anti-fungal foods. Look for dog food and treats containing caprylic acid, Pau D-Arco, and olive leaf. Pau D'Arco is rich in lapachol, which kills yeast. Olive leaf and caprylic acid are believed to break down the cell membrane of yeast.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection? ›What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection? The fastest — and most reliable — way to get rid of a yeast infection is to visit a doctor if you suspect you have one. They will likely prescribe fluconazole, an oral treatment that may take 1 week to get rid of the infection.
What can I put on my dog to relieve itching home remedies? ›Chamomile, calendula, and green tea have properties that soothe and cool irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making them great additions in a dog bath for itchy skin. These soaks are best for dogs who have hot, itchy patches of skin that are at risk of getting rubbed raw.
What can I use to clean my dog's ears naturally? ›- Take half a cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (ACV) and mix it with half a cup of water. ...
- Give your dogs ears a wipe with a cotton ball along the heavy wax, being sure not to press too far down your dogs ears.
Benadryl is a great medication for use in dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites all respond to Benadryl in most cases.
Can you put olive oil in dogs ears? ›Never put olive oil, vinegar, shampoo, or any other substance in a dog's ear. Also, avoid poking around with cotton buds in the ear, you will only work any wax and debris further in and potentially damage the eardrum.
Will 25 mg of Benadryl make my dog sleepy? ›
The side effects of Benadryl in dogs are similar to the side effects humans might experience with the drug. These include sleepiness, dry mouth, sluggishness, or urinary retention.
What is a home remedy for itchy ears? ›People may be able to relieve itchiness at home by using a few drops of baby oil or olive oil. OTC eardrops may also help. If an infection is causing the itchiness, a person may require antibiotics. In cases of earwax blockage, a doctor can safely remove the earwax and provide prevention tips.
What medicine is good for itchy ears? ›FLUOCINOLONE (floo oh SIN oh lone) is a corticosteroid. It is used to reduce swelling, redness, and itching of the ear.
Can you use coconut oil for itchy ears? ›There are several essential oils that can be used to treat itchy ears. These oils can be great in providing relief and soothe itchy ears. These include coconut oil, vegetable oil, olive oil, and tea tree oil that has been diluted.
What should I do if my dog keeps shaking his head? ›Chronic head shaking is just one indicator of a potentially serious health issue. If you notice your dog shaking their head frequently, or exhibiting additional symptoms like inflamed ears, scratching, ear sensitivity or an unpleasant odour coming from the ears, consult your vet right away.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for itchy ears? ›For most dogs, the appropriate dosage of Benadryl is perfectly safe. It will begin to reduce symptoms like skin rashes in about an hour. Getting the dosage right is important because most Benadryl tablets are intended for humans. Some dogs can be quite small, so they need less Benadryl than a person.
How can you tell if your dog has ear mites? ›Ear mites live in the ear canal and on the surrounding skin. Signs of ear mites in dogs include scratching around the ears, head and neck, skin irritation, head shaking, the presence of an ear discharge that is dark and waxy (resembling coffee grounds) and an unpleasant odour from the ears.
How can I treat a yeast infection in my dog's ear without going to the vet? ›Apple cider vinegar works by killing both yeast and bacteria. Use a mixture of 50% organic apple cider vinegar and 50% water, soak a cotton ball and clean your dog's ears.
Why does my dog keep shaking her head and scratching her ear? ›Common Reasons Dogs Shake Their Heads
Itchiness due to skin allergies. Irritant trapped in ear such as grass seeds, water or insects. Bacterial or yeast infection. Inflammation of ear canal.
Otitis externa, otherwise known as inflammation of the ear canal, affects roughly 20% of dogs. A dog with otitis may scratch his ears, shake his head vigorously and frequently, hold his ears in an abnormal position, and/or have malodorous ear discharge. The ears are also usually painful when touched.
Can you put hydrogen peroxide in dog's ears? ›
Don't use hydrogen peroxide on your pup. This common household product can actually cause irritation to healthy skin cells. Ears contain very sensitive tissue, and extended use of hydrogen peroxide could eventually lead to damage of the ear itself. Stick to veterinarian-approved cleaners.
What human antihistamines are safe for dogs? ›Antihistamines with the active ingredients of diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, cetirizine, clemastine or loratadine are usually safe for most healthy adult dogs. Hydroxyzine is another dog-safe antihistamine and one of the most effective available, but it's only available on prescription.
Why does my dog scratch his ear and then lick his foot? ›Dog and cat ear infection symptoms
Your dog or cat might be scratching at their ears, and shaking their heads more than usual. If they scratch and then smell their paw, and lick it after, or have any other of these signs, you should probably have your veterinarian take a look at the ear canal.
What medication kills ear mites in dogs? There are many products known to kill ear mites in dogs, including Milbemite, Acarex, Tresaderm, Frontline, Ivermectin, Selamectin, Advantage Multi, Simparica, and Bravecto.
How did my dog get ear mites? ›Your dog can get ear mites from just spending time outdoors. When outside, ear mites can be found in areas with a lot of trees or grasses. When your dog unknowingly passes by the mites, they cling to your dog and climb up to the ear. It's also possible for ear mites to pass from pet to pet.
Will Apple cider vinegar get rid of ear mites in dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar is a great solution to problems with a dog's ear since it kills all bacteria. However, you shouldn't use vinegar if your dog's ear has become too sore as it can hurt. Mix the vinegar with water, it should be one-part water one-part vinegar. Put the mixture in a syringe or soak it into a cotton ball.
What foods cause yeast infections in dogs ears? ›carbs and sugar are what yeast thrives on. Feeding a high carbohydrate kibble diet often leads to food allergies or intolerances that make your dog more susceptible to yeast.
Can I treat my dog's ear infection myself? ›Never put anything in your dog's ear without veterinary instruction. Your veterinary team can help you find the ideal treatment to treat the infection and give your dog much-needed relief. Itchy, uncomfortable ears can be caused by everything from ear infections to allergies and ear mites.
What is the difference between ear mites and yeast infection in dogs? ›What's the Difference Between Ear Mites and Yeast Infections in Dogs? Yeast infections in a dog's ears generally cause redness, a brown discharge, head shaking or rubbing, odor, and itching. Ear mite infections are extremely itchy and can cause many of the same symptoms.