Signs and Symptoms of Canine Ear Diseases

Most dogs suffering from an ear infection will shake their head and ears.  Some dogs may react differently due to the severity of the infection.  Tissue damage called an aural hematoma often occurs when a dog constantly scratches at their ears or rubs the infected area on available objects.

The ears may have an unpleasant odor and emit a brown or yellow discharge as the infection worsens.  Redness and swelling of the ear flap and the ear canal are common indicators of ear infections. 

If the infection reaches the inner ear, it can cause dizziness.  Symptoms of inner ear conditions often result in disorientation, circling, and head tilting.  When the nerves of the inner ear become infected, abnormal movements may be seen in the dog’s eyes.